The wildfire in Ocean County that began yesterday and has burned more than 11,500 acres, is impacting the air quality for the surrounding areas, including Atlantic County where air quality is currently listed as unhealthy for sensitive groups for today (April 23) and is expected to slightly improve to moderate for tomorrow (April 24).
Atlantic County public health officials remind residents to take precautions as wildfire smoke can pose a threat to those with heart and respiratory conditions, pregnant women, older adults, children, and outdoor workers.
To help limit exposure to wildfire smoke residents may consider staying indoors, limiting outdoor physical activity, using respiratory protection (masking) appropriately, and keeping windows closed to help keep indoor air as clean as possible. If you have respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing., move inside for cleaner air while air quality is unhealthy.
Public health officials recommend residents continue to monitor the air quality where they live until the fire is contained.
For more information, visit the county website at: atlanticcountynj.gov and search “Air Quality.”
