money Yes, that campfire smell outside could put your health at risk. Here's what to do
As southward-moving smoke continues to affect much of New York state, including the Southern Tier, multiple cancelations and closures are taking place Tuesday.
The New York state Department of Environmental Conservation issued an Air Quality Alert, which will remain in effect until midnight tonight.
Between noon and 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, emergency dispatchers fielded at least 10 calls from Broome County residents regarding the air quality and expressing concerns there may be a fire nearby.
“We have been working with our schools to make sure children stay healthy,” said Steuben County Public Health Director Darlene Smith. “When the air quality is at an unhealthy level, it’s important for everyone to consider what outdoor activities can be rescheduled for when the air quality is better.”
Who this affects
With the current numbers released by the Department of Environmental Conservation, Broome County director of environmental health, Josh Phelps, said people who need to take precautions are those with sensitivities to air contaminants, such as asthma or emphysema.
Phelps says to limit exposure to contaminants by staying inside, making sure your windows are closed and to use an air purifier if you have one.
Should you wear a mask?
Phelps says if it is necessary to go outside, those with sensitivities should wear some sort of mask, like an N-95 or better.
Cancelations and closures
A Broome Bands Together concert scheduled for 6 p.m. at Otsiningo Park was postponed. All Broome County Parks beaches, boathouses and concessions are closed due to air quality for the remainder of Tuesday, though the parks themselves remained open.
Cortland’s annual dairy parade was canceled and animals at Animal Adventure Park in Harpursville were brought indoors – the Ross Park Zoo was closed for staff training on Tuesday.
"We don't know how long it's going to be here, it's kind of dependent on which way the wind is blowing," Phelps said. "It could be gone tomorrow, it could be here longer than that."
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This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: How to stay safe as wildfires impair air quality in NY's Southern Tier
