Health Department announces mandatory wood burning restriction due to air pollution from structure fires
Health Department announces mandatory wood burning restriction ... Multnomah County
sdgtalks
July 19, 2023
Health Department announces mandatory wood burning restriction due to air pollution from structure fires
Continuous smoke and poor air quality is expected through the day, especially in eastern portions of the County; Multnomah County ordinance echoes County Fire Defense Board’s burn; requires people refrain from burning wood
Multnomah County, Ore. (July 19, 2023) — Smoke from a paper mill fire in Longview, WA entered the Portland Metro area late in the evening on July 18th, degrading air quality and leading health officials to issue a mandatory wood burning restriction (red day) for Multnomah County residents today, Wednesday July 19th. A structure fire at 122nd and Sandy in Portland also was causing poor air quality during the morning hours.
Conditions are expected to vary through the County but smoke is expected to stick around throughout the day. The Southwest Clean Air Agency (SWCAA) issued an air pollution advisory for smoke from the industrial fire for Clark and Cowlitz Counties through Friday.
“Many of us woke up this morning to a smokey smell, especially if windows were left open overnight. We encourage people to check air quality often today because conditions can change,” says Nadège Dubuisson, who works on air quality at the Health Department. “Turn your AC to recirculate. Use an air cleaner indoors if it’s available to you, especially if you have anyone who may be especially affected by poor air quality in your household and limit time outdoors if you are in an area with poor air quality.”
People who are at higher risk of smoke exposure include pregnant people, children, people with heart or lung conditions, and older adults. Residents can protect their health and reduce pollution indoors by turning on an air filter or learn how to build one. Visit multco.us/wildfiresmoke to learn more.
Health officials will continue to monitor the situation. The air quality burn restriction will be lifted when conditions improve. Burn restrictions are posted at multco.us/woodsmokestatus.
This is the first wood-burning restriction from the Health Department this summer and in 2023. The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners extended the County’s wood smoke curtailment ordinance to year-round in February 2022. This restriction does not apply to cooking, but residents should take caution when cooking outside. Exemptions are available for those in emergency situations.
People at risk
People at the greatest risk of complications from smoke exposure include pregnant people, children, people with pre-existing heart disease, people with chronic lung disease, and older individuals.
People who work outdoors are also at elevated risk. Employers should visit Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration for requirements and recommendations to protect employee health.
What should you do
Keep windows and doors closed (if temperatures allow). If it is too hot indoors, seek cooler indoor air.
- If spending time outside, avoid strenuous exercise outdoors during periods of poor air quality.
- If available, set AC to recirculate air, use an air cleaner with a HEPA filter, or build your own DIY air cleaner.
- Listen to your body and watch for any symptoms of smoke exposure.
- Keep an eye on air quality near you (links to air quality maps below or on our website).
- Do not rely on masks or bandanas for protection. Not all masks are effective and can provide a false sense of protection from smoke. An “N95” respirator can offer some protection if you must be outdoors, but it must be properly worn.
When air quality improves and reaches the yellow or green level on the Air Quality Index, even temporarily, air out your home to reduce indoor air pollution. People in homes that are too warm to stay inside with the windows closed, or who are at-risk of smoke-related health effects, should seek shelter elsewhere.
Know the symptoms
The symptoms of wildfire smoke most reported include scratchy throat, stinging or watery eyes, stuffy nose, sinus irritation, coughing, trouble breathing, and tiredness or dizziness.
Mild symptoms of smoke exposure often include:
- Cough
- Headache
- Burning eyes
- Sore throat
- Phlegm production
- Changes in breathing
Dry cough, sore throat, and difficulty breathing are common to both wildfire smoke exposure and COVID-19. Contact your doctor if you believe you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
Smoke exposure can also cause serious and life-threatening respiratory distress, including heart attacks and strokes. If you’re in distress, you should immediately dial 9-1-1.
Your body
Healthy people affected by smoke may have only mild symptoms. But healthy people may also have underlying health conditions that put them at risk. Listen to your body’s cues:
If your eyes are burning, your throat is sore, your lungs are having a hard time expanding, or you are coughing, stay inside and focus on creating a “Clean Room” where the air is as clean as possible.
Gauging
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Yes, there are indicators mentioned in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Air Quality Index (AQI): The article mentions checking air quality often and provides links to websites where air quality information can be found. The AQI is a commonly used indicator to measure air pollution levels.
- Number of wood-burning violations reported: The article mentions reporting violations of mandatory burn restrictions. Tracking the number of reported violations can indicate the level of compliance with air quality regulations.
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | Air Quality Index (AQI) |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. | Air Quality Index (AQI), Number of wood-burning violations reported |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning. | Air Quality Index (AQI) |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: multco.us
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