BAD AIR DAY – STAY INDOORS IF YOU CAN
So you haven’t noticed, Tehachapi has been smothered with a wave of smoke from nearby forest fires. According to a notice issued by kernair.org a few days ago says the smoke impact is due to a recent shift in upper level winds and down slope winds at night.
The notice states…
Residents are advised to restrict outdoor activities in those areas impacted by smoke.
Smoke from the Piute Fire and wildland fires in several parts of the state are continuing to create air pollution problems for both the desert and mountain regions of eastern Kern County. Recent shifts in the upper level winds and downslope winds at night are expected to increase the smoke impacts from the Piute Fire on the Kern River Valley and nearby communities. These smoke impacts can vary greatly from one community to the next. Residents in areas where they can see smoke on the ground or can smell smoke are advised to use caution and avoid being outside when smoke is present. If conditions worsen, people in a “high risk” group, who do not have an air conditioned residence, may need to move to an air conditioned shelter or leave the area in order to reduce their exposure to the smoke.
Exposure to smoke and other particle pollution may cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, cause asthma attacks, acute bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections. Short-term exposure to particle pollution has been linked to heart attacks and arrhythmias in people with heart disease, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. People with heart or lung diseases should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of unhealthy air quality when smoke is present. Everyone should reduce prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion.
For more information, call the Kern County Air Pollution Control District Office (661) 862-5250.
Everyone, please close your windows and doors, turn the AC on low and stay inside today… you don’t need to be breathing this bad air.
Don’t have AC.. head over to the Hitching Post Theater.. they’ve got AC… make it a double feature. Then consider a taco or burrito at any one of our great local Mexican eateries.
