Health Advisory
Smoke from Mexico
Approaches Galveston County
May 6, 2003
La Marque –
The Galveston County Health District’s
Pollution Control Division, is issuing an “Air Quality
Watch/Health Alert.” GCHD issues an alert, when
it appears that there is the likelihood that air pollutants
may reach levels that can have an adverse impact on public health
in Galveston County. On Tuesday, April
29, 2003, moderate levels of smoke from agricultural burning
in southeastern Mexico and Central America pushed into parts
of southern Texas. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
predicts that the smoke is likely to continue affecting parts
of the eastern two-thirds of Texas through Saturday, May 10,
2003. This smoke may produce a noticeable haze.
If heavy smoke production continues, stronger
winds in the western Gulf may increase the change that air
quality in Galveston County could become unhealthy for sensitive
groups. Should that occur, people with heart or lung disease,
the elderly, children and pregnant women should limit prolonged
or heavy outdoor exertion and limit time spent outdoors. In
addition, persons with asthma should follow their respective
asthma management plan.
To limit your exposure to adverse health effects,
keep doors and window closed. If cooling is needed, turn air-conditioning
to re-circulate mode in your home and car. As an additional
protective measure, avoid indoor sources of pollutants, including
tobacco smoke, frying or broiling foods, and using paints
solvents and adhesives.
Most healthy adults and children are expected
to recover quickly from any symptoms of short-term exposure
like coughing, wheezing, or eye and throat irritation. The
Environmental Protection Agency expects the long-term risk
from these short-term exposures to be low.
Should the smoke reach more dangerous levels
in Galveston County, the Galveston County Health District
will issue another news release.
CONTACT:
Kurt Koopmann
Public Information Officer
(409) 938-2211
koopman@gchd.org |
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