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615 Sheridan Street
Port Townsend, WA 98368
www.JeffersonCountyPublicHealth.org
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360-385-9400 360-385-9444
360-385-9401 (f) (f) 360-379-4487
August 2, 2017
For Immediate Release
Contact: Stuart Whitford
Jefferson County Environmental Health Director
(360) 385-9411 – Desk
(360) 531-3560 - Cell
Canadian Wildfires Impact Jefferson County’s Air Quality
Port Townsend – Western Washington air quality has taken a hit this week as smoke from
Canadian wildfires drifts south. North winds are moving smoke from a number of large British
Columbia wildfires into Washington State. Since mid-day on Tuesday, August 1, 2017, air quality
monitors across the state have shown increased levels of air pollution, ranging up into
“Moderate” and even “Unhealthy” ranges on the Washington Air Quality Advisory (WAQA).
Jefferson County wants its residents to be aware of current air quality conditions and take
necessary steps to avoid negative health effects. Citizens can also monitor the current and
forecasted Jefferson County Air Quality Index (AQI) at the AirNow website. Earlier this morning
air quality monitors reached the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” range. The smoke will likely
continue to cause problems through much of today (Wednesday, August 2, 2017) but by later
this evening shifting winds should begin clearing smoke from our area.
Smoke from wildfires can be particularly dangerous for sensitive groups including people with
heart or lung disease, asthma, diabetes, children, especially infants, adults older than 65,
pregnant women, and those who have had a stroke. People in one or more of these groups
should limit their time outdoors. Additional resources include:
Washington Smoke Blog: Contains information about smoke as well as active wildfires.
National Weather Service: Weather related alerts, including air quality.
Washington State Department of Health's Wildfire Smoke page: Explains the dangers of
wildfire smoke.
"Air Pollution and School Activities" table: Specific recommendations for youth outdoor
activities based on air quality conditions
For more information about health concerns relating to air quality or informational resources,
please contact Jefferson County Public Health.
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Always working for a safer and healthier community