LRAPA issues air quality alert through Wednesday morning

by the Lane County Regional Air Protection Agency

Sept. 19, 2022 — Wildfire smoke from the Cedar Creek fire will worsen air quality in Lane County through Wednesday morning.

The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency (LRAPA) has issued an air quality advisory for Lane County through the morning of Wednesday, Sept. 21.

In Eugene and Springfield, air quality of “unhealthy for sensitive groups” is expected in the mornings with improved air quality each afternoon.

In Oakridge, air quality is likely to worsen to “hazardous” on the Air Quality Index.

Young children, older adults, and people with heart or lung problems are especially vulnerable. With school back in session, it is important to consider public health guidance for school outdoor activities when scheduling time outdoors for children.

LRAPA recommends Lane County residents close their doors and windows and run an air purifier to protect indoor air quality.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality also expects intermittent smoke in northern Klamath County through Wednesday. Air quality in Deschutes and Lake counties will likely remain good to moderate for next several days.

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 people.

Protect yourself and your family when smoke levels are high:

• Stay inside if possible. Keep windows and doors closed. If it’s too hot, run air conditioning on recirculate or consider moving to a cooler location.
• 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.
• When air quality improves to moderate or healthy (yellow or green on the Air Quality Index), open windows and doors to air out homes and businesses.
• If you have a breathing plan for a medical condition, be sure to follow it and keep any needed medications refilled.

Check current air quality conditions and advisories on the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Air Quality Index webpage or by downloading the free OregonAIR app on a smartphone.

See also: EPA Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home