Navajo Nation Issues Smoke Advisory Due to Fires in Eastern Arizona

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Smoke Advisory

WINDOW ROCK, ARIZONA - The Navajo Nation's Public Health Emergency Preparedness department distributed the following Smoke Advisory:

A State of Emergency was declared Friday, June 3rd, by the Apache County Board of Supervisors because of the Wallow Fire. The uncontrolled fire has burned an estimated 144,000 acres in the White Mountains near the community of Alpine and Greer. High winds have contributed to the spread of the fire.

The New Mexico Department of Health has issued a warning to residents, children and elderly to take extra care when outdoors. Individuals with respiratory or heart problems should leave areas where smoke levels are high or stay indoors.

Smoke is an eye and lung irritant. The health department also adds that smoke can intensify chronic heart and lung problems. People with heart disease may feel chest pains, rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath or feel very tired.

The New Mexico Department of Health also advises that when smoke levels are high, candles, fireplaces or gas stoves should not be used.

There are no fires here on the Navajo Reservation at this time.

Please be careful with fires. Open fires on windy days are not advisable.

posted June 7, 2011 8:57 am et