Grant Co. Health Dept. urges heat and smoke-related precautions be taken
By Logan Bagett on Tuesday, July 16th, 2024 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
JOHN DAY – The Grant County Health Department has issued information regarding the affects of wildfire smoke. Currently, Grant County and surrounding areas are under an Air Quality Advisory. Find the Health Department’s release below:
(Press Release from Grant County Health Department)
Grant County public health officials urge people across the county to take precautions as smoke from wildfires affects the air quality and extreme heat temperatures. Higher temperatures contribute to the build-up of harmful air pollutants.
Public health officials urge all Grant County residents to take the following precautions to avoid health problems during hot, smoky conditions.
Reduce time spent outdoors. Use an air purifier in your home.
Stay cool, stay hydrated and stay informed.
Extremely high temperatures can affect your health.
Heat-related illness is preventable.
Those most at risk for heat-related illness include:
Young children
Adults 65 and older
People with chronic illness
People who are overweight
People who work outdoors
Drink plenty of fluids, regardless of your level of activity and even if you are not thirsty. Drink between two and four cups per hour while working outside. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
Limit sun exposure from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Try to schedule outdoor activities, including sports events, in the early morning or later evening.
Dress you and your children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing that covers the skin. Wear sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats.
Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car.
Seek medical care right away, if you or someone you know has signs of heat-related illness. These include muscle cramps, headaches, faintness, nausea or vomiting.
For more information about your community’s air quality, visit http://airnow.gov/ or https://www.oregonsmoke.org/. To get out of the heat or smoke in Grant County, you can visit one of our Cooling Centers. The Grant County Library, 507 South Canyon Boulevard, John Day, Oregon 97845. They are open from 11:00 am to 5:30 pm Monday through Thursday. Grant County Senior Center, 142 Dayton Street, John Day, OR 97845, Monday/Thursday 10 to 5 pm and Tuesday’s 12-4 pm.
