City Warns About High Winds

The city Environmental Health Department’s Air Quality Division has issued the following “high wind alert.”

“Blowing dust contributes to particulate pollution. People who are sensitive to blowing dust, such as those with asthma, chronic bronchitis and other respiratory and heart diseases, are encouraged to limit outdoor activity.”

The notice also says that children and seniors may also be affected by dust. “Schools and senior citizen facilities may want to provide indoor activities to minimize exposure to elevated outdoor particulate levels,” the advisory states.

During blowing dust events, the city says, the following actions are recommended, especially for individuals sensitive to particulate pollution:

– Keep windows and doors closed. If needed for comfort, use air conditioners or heating systems on recycle/recirculation mode.

– Limit your time spent outdoors.

– If symptoms of heart or lung disease occur, including shortness of breath, chest tightness, chest pain, palpitations or unusual fatigue, contact your health care provider.

– Individuals with heart or lung disease should follow their health management plan from their health care provider. Asthmatic individuals should follow a prescribed asthma management plan.

– Avoid outdoor exercise.

For updates on air quality information, call 311 or 768-4734.