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UPDATE: Air quality advisory extended to Jackson, Klamath, Deschutes counties

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QUICK FACTS

Location: Jackson, Klamath, Deschutes counties
End date: Friday afternoon, possibly longer
Smoke source: Fires in the Oregon Cascades (Devil’s Knob, Rough Patch Complex, Bull Complex, Middle Fork Complex) and Southern Washington (Schneider Springs Fire)

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality extended an air quality advisory Thursday for Jackson, Klamath and Deschutes counties due to smoke from fires in the Oregon Cascades and Southern Washington.

** Información en español **

DEQ expects smoke levels to fluctuate between moderate and unhealthy in these areas through at least tomorrow.

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 purifiers. 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.

Media contact: Laura Gleim, Oregon DEQ, laura.gleim@deq.state.or.us, 503-577-3697

Local contacts:
Chaos Fire, Rough Patch Complex, Photo: U.S. Forest Service