Smoke from a peat fire is affecting air quality in Pittsburg and nearby communities. Contra Costa County Health Services is advising residents to monitor conditions and take precautions to avoid exposure to smoke.
People in the area should minimize outdoor activities when they see or smell smoke, particularly older adults, pregnant women, and people who have asthma, lung or heart disease. Exposure to smoky air can make anyone feel unwell, coughing, scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, shortness of breath, chest pain, headaches, stinging eyes, or runny nose. Call your healthcare provider if your symptoms are severe or worsening.
Using a mask is not an effective substitute for staying indoors in a space with filtered air. Bandanas, surgical masks and other face coverings are not effective protection against wildfire smoke. Those who must go out during smoky periods should wear respirator-style masks (N-95, N-100, KN-95).
Visit https://cchealth.org/wildfire-smoke/ for more information and tips on smoke protection. Get updates on Twitter: @CCCounty, @CoCoHealth, and @ContraCostaFire.
Check air quality: https://airnow.gov
See Contra Costa Health Services Advisory on Pittsburg area smoke. See the Health Advisory in Spanish.