Air Quality Alert In Dana Point Due To Wildfire Smoke: What To Know

DANA POINT, CA — The Air Quality Management District issued an air quality alert through noon Tuesday across Orange County as a result of poor air quality caused by SoCal wildfires.

The alert was issued due to increased harmful levels of particle pollution from windblown dust.

According to the National Weather Service, the alert impacts Orange County and non-desert portions of Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

"Particles can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, asthma attacks and difficulty breathing," the National Weather Service said in a statement. "Everyone can be affected, but people with lung or heart disease, older adults, people who are pregnant, children and those who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk."

To protect your health, the NWS urged the following:

• Remain indoors with windows and doors closed.
• Avoid intense outdoor physical activity.
• Run your air conditioner and/or an air purifier.
• If you must be outdoors, keep the time brief and wear a well-fitting N-95 mask.
• Do not use whole house fans or swamp coolers that bring in outside air.
• Avoid other sources of pollution such as fireplaces, candles, incense, grilling and gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment.