The Apple Fire has funneled a lot of smoke and ash into the Morongo Basin. You may notice that it is harder to breathe outside, especially if you have a chronic condition. Furthermore, you may be concerned about your pets breathing in too many toxins. Reporter Cassidy Zimarik shares these tips to protect yourself and your pets from smoke and ash…
It is no secret that breathing in ash and smoke is not good for humans and animals, but what can you do to mitigate the harsher effects of inhaling these toxins?
The CDC and EPA have guidelines for just these scenarios. Luckily, for pets and humans alike, the recommendations are similar; stay inside. In addition to staying inside, you should run air conditioning instead of swamp coolers if possible and reduce physical activity while limiting outdoor time. You should also not add to indoor pollution by burning candles, frying or broiling meat, or smoking indoors. If you have outdoor pets, it is recommended that you bring them inside until the smoke decreases.
If you have a chronic condition like asthma or COPD, or you must be outside, it is recommended that you wear an N95 or P100 respirator. Symptoms to watch out for in humans and animals include coughing, watery eyes, trouble breathing, fatigue or weakness, and reduced appetite.
Reducing Smoke Exposure: https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/smoke_fires/reduce-your-smoke-exposure.pdf
Protecting Pets: https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/smoke_fires/protect-your-pets-from-wildfire-smoke.pdf
Protecting Livestock and Large Animals: https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/smoke_fires/protect-your-large-animals-and-livestock-from-wildfire-smoke.pdf
