Smoke from wildfires can pose health hazards to downwind communities. It often catches us off-guard when it moves into a community. Smoke is a complex mixture of particles and gases which, includes carbon dioxide, water vapor, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, hydrocarbons and other organic chemicals, nitrogen oxides, trace minerals and several thousand other compounds. The actual composition of smoke depends on the fuel type, the temperature of the fire, and the wind conditions.

While the ash and smoke are visible reminders of the pollution currently impacting an area, be even more cautious of the fine particles you can’t see. These particles, which are invisible to the naked eye, bypass our natural defense system and lodge into our lungs. They can cause irritation, and over the long-term cause decreased lung function. They also make us more susceptible to developing diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and possibly cancer.

To purchase particulate respirators visit: http://www.sierrasafetyco.com/respiratory-protection/

http://www.placer.ca.gov/~/media/apc/documents/WildfireSmoke/FaceMasks-FiltersInfo.pdf

For more information visit:

http://www.placer.ca.gov/departments/air/infoandeducation/wildfireandsmoke

http://www.sparetheair.com/

http://www.sparetheair.com/links.cfm