Local Health Expert Warns of Dangers from Smoke Inhalation by Sandy Rodriguez - City News Group, Inc.
View Upcoming Events View Your Local Sales

Community Calendar

◄ OCTOBER ►
S M T W T F S
27 28 29 30 01 02 03
04 05 06 07 08 09 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
View Events
Submit Events
directory

Local Health Expert Warns of Dangers from Smoke Inhalation

By Sandy Rodriguez, Community Writer
June 23, 2015 at 04:02pm. Views: 236

As thousands of acres burn and smoke travels through strong gusts of wind, experts at Redlands Community Hospital in San Bernardino County, California warn of the risks associated with smoke inhalation. It estimated that 50 to 80 percent of fire deaths in the United States are the result of smoke inhalation injuries rather than burns. Fire produces a complex toxic environment involving flame, heat, oxygen depletion, smoke and gases. Those who are highest risk from smoke inhalation are infants, children and the elderly, especially those with heart and lung problems. “The best way to protect yourself is to stay indoors if you smell smoke,” says James Dexter M.D., a pulmonologist at Redlands Community Hospital. Dr. Dexter recommendations to avoid harmful exposure to smoke: • People living in close proximity to the fire-stricken areas should remain indoors and avoid inhalation of smoke, ashes, and particulate matter in the area. Ordinary dust masks, designed to filter out large particles, will not help as they still allow the more dangerous smaller particles to pass through. • If you live close to or in the surrounding area, it's recommended that you refrain from exercising outdoors, especially if you smell smoke or notice eye or throat irritation. • Extra precaution should be taken for children, who are more susceptible to smoke because their respiratory systems are still developing and they breathe in more air. • When driving your car in smoky areas, keep your windows and vents closed. Air conditioning should only be operated in the "recirculate" setting. For the elderly and those with respiratory problems and chronic heart disease should: • Stay indoors as much as possible, with doors, windows and fireplace dampers shut and preferably with clean air circulating through air conditioners and/or air cleaners. Use air conditioners on the recirculation setting so outside air will not be moved into the room. • Due to the higher levels of pollutants in some areas, there is a possibility of experiencing increased symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms, please try to contact your physician. • If outdoor trips in smoky areas are necessary, breathe through a damp cloth to help filter out particles in the air. • People with asthma should check with their physician regarding any changes in medication that may be needed to cope with the smoky conditions. • If pulmonary symptoms are not relieved by the usual medicines, seek medical attention. Symptoms to watch for: wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty taking a full breath, chest heaviness, light headedness, dizziness and confusion. If you have any concerns or questions please contact your physician. • If you develop a persistent cough, or difficult or painful breathing, call your physician. The onset of symptoms can appear as late as 24 to 48 hours after exposure and that smoke can remain in areas for many days after the fires have ended. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience: • Difficulty breathing • Hoarse voice • Prolonged coughing spells • Mental confusion

Related Articles

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group

By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer

October 7, 2026 at 10:47am. Views: 691

Moreno Valley fire officials keep a watchful eye on dry vegetation near local neighborhoods as fall inspections focus on reducing wildfire hazards and helping residents protect their homes before dangerous conditions arise. Red more on how to stay compliant and keep hazards at bay...

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Hattie Strong, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:06am. Views: 58

An emergency preparedness representative speaks with a family at an outdoor earthquake safety information booth. A large Great California ShakeOut banner and displays explaining earthquake safety are visible beside emergency supplies, including a backpack, flashlight, water, and first-aid kit

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By William Cortez, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 74

A healthcare worker assists a resident during a community health outreach event. San Bernardino County's Wellness on Wheels program offers testing and preventive health resources at locations throughout the city.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Amanda Spencer, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 100

A female safety instructor demonstrates how to secure a young girl in a child car seat while the child's mother and older brother watch beside an open vehicle door. A child car seat safety education banner is visible in the background.

Photo Courtesy of: City News Group

By William Cortez, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 96

Redlands Police uniform patch beside a ceremonial police cap, framed recognition plaque, and white flowers. Police patrol vehicles, American and California flags, and a police department building appear in the background at sunset, symbolizing Police Chief Rachel Tolber's retirement after 28 years of service.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 60

Festive University of Redlands Homecoming celebration, with alumni, students, and families gathered on campus wearing maroon Bulldogs apparel. A bulldog mascot greets attendees while cheerleaders and a marching band perform near decorated tents and balloons, with university buildings and mountains in the background.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT.

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 77

Redlands Planning Commission meeting, with commissioners seated at a council dais as a presenter discusses proposed development plans. Maps, architectural renderings, American and California flags, and a City of Redlands emblem appear in the background while community members observe the proceedings.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Amanda Spencer, Contributing Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 95

Image depicting visitors entering the Museum of Redlands beneath a banner announcing its October 24 opening. The historic-style building features cream-colored columns, vintage photographs, landscaped gardens, and mountains in the background, symbolizing 26 years of community efforts to preserve Redlands history

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Hattie Strong, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 96

A resident and a volunteer wearing a reflective safety vest place an old wooden cabinet into a large blue disposal container. Other volunteers and residents unload household items from vehicles at an outdoor collection site, with mountains in the background

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 99

Outdoor internet access can help residents complete schoolwork, search for employment and stay connected while enjoying Moreno Valley's public spaces.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By William Cortez, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 79

An older man practices walking between parallel bars while a female physical therapist in navy-blue scrubs provides support in a bright rehabilitation center. Exercise equipment and other patients are visible in the background.

Photo Courtesy of: AI-generated by ChatGPT

By Amanda Spencer, Community Writer

October 14, 2026 at 11:03am. Views: 85

Construction workers wearing high-visibility safety vests and hard hats repair a concrete sidewalk along a tree-lined street in Loma Linda. Orange traffic cones and construction equipment mark the work area, with mountains visible in the background.

--> -->