<
https://theconversation.com/bushfires-in-victoria-how-to-protect-yourself-if-the-air-is-smoky-where-you-live-215789>
"Bushfires broke out yesterday in western Victoria during a day of extreme
weather conditions across the state. Although authorities have reported the
situation is easing, emergency services continue to fight blazes in the
Grampians National Park around the towns of Bellfield and Pomonal.
While the air quality in Australia is generally good, events such as bushfires
can have a significant effect. Smoke can travel long distances and reduce air
quality throughout a city or region.
The combustion of vegetation produces a range of gases, including carbon
monoxide, as well as fine particles, often described as PM2.5 (particles of 2.5
micrometres in diameter or less). These particles can remain suspended in the
air for extended periods and, owing to their tiny size, can penetrate deep into
the lungs when inhaled.
Exposure to PM2.5 in bushfire smoke can result in a range of symptoms including
coughing, throat irritation, as well as irritation to the eyes and nose. It can
make existing conditions such as asthma worse and increase hospital
presentations.
The longer-term health effects of PM2.5 exposure are well established, with
research by the World Health Organization and the US Environmental Protection
Agency linking PM2.5 exposure to respiratory and heart disease.
Ultimately, poor air quality can affect all of us, with even healthy people
experiencing symptoms when exposed to high concentrations of bushfire smoke.
There are, however, things we can do to protect ourselves."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
