What can you do to minimize the effects of wildfire smoke on your health? “Smoke from wildfires can cause high concentrations of particulates (air pollutants) in populated areas,” shares TriCounty Health representative Liberty Best. “If smoke becomes thick, people with heart or respiratory ailments should reduce physical exertion and outdoor activities, if at all possible.” In addition to health issues for humans, the Utah Department of Environmental Quality shares that wildfire smoke is particularly harmful to animals, especially certain pets that are more vulnerable, including puppies, kittens, elderly animals, birds, and snub-nosed breeds of dogs and cats. The best safety measures to take are to keep pets inside, reduce indoor air pollution using a purifier, keep your pet hydrated, and reduce your pet’s activity. For more tips, visit deq.utah.gov.
