ALA warns of asbestos, other lung hazards in California wildfires

Sep 24, 2009

The American Lung Association (ALA) of California has issued lung health tips for residents who are affected by the wildfires throughout the state. People with asthma, emphysema, bronchitis and other respiratory problems need to monitor their breathing and their exposure to airborne debris, and to talk to their doctors immediately if problems develop.

In general, the ALA recommends that people living in areas affected by the fires should stay indoors to avoid inhaling smoke, ashes and other particles in the air. In the immediate and surrounding areas, people should not exercise outdoors, especially if they smell smoke or experience irritation of the eyes or throat. When driving through smoky areas, drivers are encouraged to keep their windows and air vents closed, using the air conditioning on the recirculation setting.

For those with respiratory problems, the guidelines are more stringent. People should stay indoors as much as possible with the doors, windows and fireplace dampers shut. Clean air should be circulating through air conditioners on the recirculation setting, air cleaners or air purifiers. If they must go outdoors, people with respiratory problems should breathe through a damp cloth to prevent inhalation of airborne particles. Asthma patients must be sure to have their medication available at all times, and should talk to their doctors about appropriate dosages for asthma prevention. People who use oxygen should not adjust their intake levels without first consulting with their physicians. People should seek medical attention if usual medications do not relieve pulmonary symptoms like shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty taking a full breath, heaviness in the chest, dizziness and lightheadedness.

Anyone who develops a persistent cough or difficult or painful breathing should contact his or her physician. Onset of symptoms may not appear until 24 to 48 hours after exposure, and smoke can linger for many days after the fires have ended.

During the cleanup process after the fires, people with lung or heart problems need to avoid cleanup activities and stay away from areas where soot and dust are present. Areas with soot and dust should be thoroughly wet before beginning cleanup to reduce the number of particles becoming airborne. Dust masks should be worn at all times during cleanup.

Those who live in the immediately affected areas should avoid going outside altogether. If staying inside is not possible, people should use a properly fitted NIOSH-branded N95 or P100 mask. Damp cloths can be used in an emergency situation, in case of evacuation or other emergency, but they cannot provide the same level of protection as an N95 mask; a damp cloth, however, is better than nothing. People with lung diseases need to consult with their doctors about additional breathing difficulties that may result from wearing a mask. People should not disturb areas where they suspect asbestos and other hazardous materials are present. Asbestos is a known carcinogen that can lead to serious illnesses like asbestosis and mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer. Dust masks do not provide protection against asbestos exposure, so it is a substance best avoided.

For the full story, go to San Fernando Valley Sun.

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