Cooling & Smoke Shelters

Air Quality Advisory

Make sure to stay safe if you are planning any outdoor activities by monitoring the air quality in your area (https://www.lrapa.org/) and by giving yourself frequent breaks from the smoke by going indoors whenever possible, especially if you are exercising or working outdoors. 

Elders, children, pregnant people and those with chronic conditions are especially at risk of smoke-related illness, so take caution. 

LCPH will provide updates on the opening of any smoke respite shelters should the air quality index reach a rolling 24-hour average of 150 or worse. 

Remember, limiting your smoke exposure by going indoors whenever possible can reduce the harmful effects of smoke on your health. 

How to reduce the impact of wildfire smoke exposure

Avoid being outside as much as possible.

Spend time indoors including public spaces like, libraries, community centers, shelters, and other indoor areas that are available.

Wear masks or face coverings when doing outdoor activities, or if you plan on being outdoors for an extended period of time.

Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water.

Check Lane County Public Health’s website at lanecounty.org/cooling for updates on potential pop-up smoke respite shelters.

Signs of wildfire smoke related illness

*Wildfire smoke is incredibly harmful to your health so pay special attention if you begin experiencing the symptoms below:

 

· Coughing, wheezing

· Trouble breathing

· Asthma attacks

· Eye and sinus irritation

· Scratchy throat and a runny nose

· Nausea

· Headaches

· Tiredness

· Chest pain

· Fast heartbeat

Treatment:

· Stop all outdoor activities

· Seek shelter indoors

· Drink Water

· Seek medical attention if symptoms get worse

 

People most at risk of smoke-related illness:

· Children

· Elders 65+

· Pregnant people

· Those with chronic conditions including obesity, diabetes and heart and lung conditions

 

For pets

· Provide lots of water

· Limit long walks, and exercise

· Go indoors to pet friendly environments whenever possible

 

Watch your animals for signs of smoke-related illness such as:

· Coughing or gagging

· Heavy panting

· Eye irritation and excessive watering

· Inflamed throat or mouth

· Increased saliva and/or nasal mucus

· Fatigue or weakness

· Loss of balance

· Reduced appetite and/or thirst

Do-it-yourself Air Purifier

Air Purifier

Below is a list of resources available throughout Lane County as well as other tips on how to stay cool. 

Cooling Spaces

Where do I go to cool down?

¿Dónde puedo ir para poder refrescarme?


Extreme Heat Guidance and Tips

What Does Heat Related Illness Look Like?

¿Cómo son las enfermedades relacionadas con el calor?

How to prevent heat related illness?

¿Cómo prevenir las enfermedades relacionadas con el calor?

Heat stress Hydration

Hidratación ante estrés por calor


Summer Tips When It's Hot Out! | Black Thistle Street Aid

Summer Tips When It's Hot Out! | Black Thistle Street Aid