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Air quality advisory for Lakeview and Klamath Falls areas

By
QUICK FACTS

Location: Lakeview and Klamath Falls areas - 
End date: Monday, July 5 - 
Smoke source: Lava Fire near Mt. Shasta and the Tennant Fire near Highway 97 - 

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality issued an air quality advisory Wednesday night for the Lakeview and Klamath Falls areas due to smoke from fires in Northern California.

** Información en español **

DEQ expects air quality to fluctuate in the Lakeview and Klamath Falls areas for at least the next several days, potentially longer depending on fire activity. DEQ and partner agencies will continue to monitor smoke in area.

Smoke levels can change rapidly depending on weather. Check current conditions on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog, DEQ’s Air Quality Index, or by downloading the free OregonAIR app on your smartphone.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and lungs and worsen some medical conditions. People most at risk include infants and young children, people with heart or lung disease, older adults and pregnant women.

Protect yourself and your family when smoke levels are high:

  • Stay inside if possible. Keep windows and doors closed.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
  • Use high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifies. Or create your own air purifying filter by following these instructions.
  • Be aware of smoke in your area and avoid places with the highest levels.
  • If you have heart or lung disease or asthma, follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

Cloth, dust and surgical masks don’t protect from the harmful particles in smoke. N95 or P100 respirators approved by NIOSH may offer protection, but they must be properly fitted and worn. They won’t work for everyone, especially children. People with heart or lung conditions should consult their doctor before wearing a respirator. Get more information about protecting your health during wildfires.

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Tennant Fire, June 29, 2021. Photo credit: USFS - Credt Brandon Dethlefs