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Health Department Issues Air Quality Advisory

Published on May 18, 2023

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department (LLCHD) today issued a health advisory for sensitive groups because of smoke from wildfires occurring in Alberta and British Colombia, Canada. Smoke may periodically reach levels that are unhealthy for children, older adults and those with asthma, lung disease, other respiratory conditions or heart disease.

“Northerly winds combined with heavy smoke being generated by large wildfires in Canada are likely to result in levels of smoke in the air that are unhealthy for sensitive groups. Smoke impacts are most likely through early Friday afternoon, but could linger into Saturday,” said Gary Bergstrom, Air Quality Program Supervisor for LLCHD.

Bergstrom said when tiny particles and gases in smoke are inhaled, they can cause asthma attacks, worsen chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and cause angina (chest pain) in some people with heart disease. LLCHD advises those at risk to reduce strenuous physical activity when outdoors, take plenty of breaks and watch for symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chest pain. People with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and have quick relief medicine readily available.

Smoke levels may fluctuate due to weather patterns and varying smoke production by the fires. Residents should pay close attention to the Air Quality Index (AQI) to stay informed of ongoing air quality conditions. AQI levels in the orange category can cause health problems for sensitive populations. The AQI is available at airnow.gov.

LLCHD monitors air quality 24 hours a day, and the AQI at airnow.gov is updated hourly. The Environmental Protection Agency also provides the AirNow and SmokeSense smart phone apps to help people stay informed of the AQI in their area.

Those at risk can further protect their health by staying indoors, keeping windows and doors closed, using a HEPA filter, and using the recirculate setting when using a vehicle air conditioner. Those who experience difficulty breathing, coughing, unusual fatigue, heart palpitations, tightness in the chest, or angina should contact a medical care provider.

For more information on LLCHD, visit lincoln.ne.gov/health.