AUSTIN (KXAN) — The over 8,000-acre Crabapple Fire is just one of 11 wildfires that started in Texas Saturday, heavy winds bring smoke from these fires up to Austin and surrounding areas. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this smoke poses a threat to individuals with and without underlying health conditions.
Officials say the Gillespie County wildfire is now at 40% containment. Officials reported embers flying in the sky near the area of the wildfire, and KXAN staff reported seeing ash falling in Austin Saturday afternoon. Austin Fire Department dispatchers also reported receiving multiple calls related to smoke in the area.
Who is at risk?
According to a recent report from the Environmental Protection Agency, wildfire smoke can contain thousands of harmful chemicals and particles. The particle pollution puts everyone at risk, but “those with cardiovascular or respiratory disease, older adults, children under 18 years of age, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and those of lower socio-economic status,” are at greater risk, the report said.
Effects of wildfire smoke on the body
The CDC said “wildfire smoke can make you sick,” and breathing in the smoke will affect your body quickly. Watch out for the following symptoms/effects that can come from breathing in wildfire smoke;
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Asthma attacks
- Stinging eyes
- Coughing
- Itchy throat
- Irritated sinuses
- Headaches
- Chest pain
Protecting yourself after a wildfire
The CDC offers a list of safety guidelines to follow after a wildfire. The CDC recommends first, checking your local air quality, reducing exposure to smoke by wearing a NIOSH Approved N95 respirator, and monitoring your health system, especially those at most risk.
