HomeMy WebLinkAbout071425 email - PRESS RELEASE_ Jefferson County Public Health Encourages Community to Prepare for Hotter_ Smokier SummerJefferson County Public Health is urging residents to plan ahead for higher-than-usual summer temperatures and increased wildfire smoke, both of which are expected to be higher than
normal. As temperatures rise and wildfire smoke becomes more common, it’s important for everyone, especially those with underlying health conditions, to take steps now to stay safe
and healthy.
Air Quality and Smoke Preparedness
Residents are encouraged to monitor current air quality at AirNow.gov <http://airnow.gov/> . Poor air quality can be harmful to everyone, especially people with asthma, heart conditions,
or other chronic illnesses. To reduce exposure:
* Plan ahead to filter your indoor air. Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter or make a DIY box fan air filter using MERV 13 or higher filters.
* Avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous activity when air quality is poor.
* If you must be outdoors, wear a tight-fitting N95 mask for added protection.
Staying Safe in the Heat
Residents are encouraged to monitor the National Weather Service's alerts at Weather.gov <http://weather.gov/> for local heat alerts. Extreme heat can also pose serious health risks.
Take these steps to stay cool:
* Modify your activity level—avoid outdoor exertion during the hottest parts of the day.
* If the air quality is good, capture cool air at night by opening windows, then close windows and shades during the day.
* Stay hydrated and wear loose, light-colored clothing.
* Know the signs of heat-related illness. If someone shows symptoms of heat exhaustion-headache, tiredness, nausea help them cool down by hydrating, finding shade and dampening clothing
with water.
* Watch for signs of heat stroke—such as dizziness, confusion, or fainting—get them into shade, apply cool water, and call 911 immediately. Stay with them until help arrives.
Cooling and Clean Air Centers Available
Several Cooling and Clean Air Centers are open throughout Jefferson County. These locations provide relief from heat and smoke, and may have extended hours during weather events. Please
call ahead for current hours.
Port Townsend
* Port Townsend Library – 360-385-3181
* Quimper Unitarian Universalist Fellowship – 360-379-0609 (Recommended for those with asthma or health conditions)
* The Nest Coffeehouse – 360-344-2374
* The Recovery Cafe – 360-379-6866
* Port Townsend Recreation Center – 360-385-2221 (For youth and families with children)
Tri-Area
* Jefferson County Library – 360-385-6544
* Tri-Area Community Center – 360-390-4014
South County
* Quilcene Community Center – 360-765-3321
* Brinnon Community Center – 360-796-4350
For additional guidance or questions, visit the Jefferson County Public Health Climate & Health webpage or call 360-385-9400.
To read the press release on our website, visit: <https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1509> Jefferson County Public Health Encourages Community to Prepare for
Hotter, Smokier Summer <https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1577>
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To see this press release on our Instagram, visit: Jefferson County Public Health Encourages Community to Prepare for Hotter, Smokier Summer <https://www.instagram.com/p/DMGitC1h9mB/>
Jordan Carter
Gender Pronouns: she/her/hers
Communications Specialist
Jefferson County Public Health
615 Sheridan Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368
Main: 360-385-9400
Direct: 360-379-4478
jcarter@co.jefferson.wa.us | https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/ <https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/>
<https://www.instagram.com/jeffcopublichealth_wa/> <https://www.facebook.com/jeffersoncountypublichealth/>
Always Working for a Safer and Healthier Jefferson County
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