Press Release from the Apache County Public Health Department:

Due to prescribed burning on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, smoke is impacting local communities.

Particulate matter is a component of smoke from wildfires and consists of fine particles such as soot and ash that can reach deep into the lungs and may contain irritating and toxic compounds. Some of the symptoms related to exposure to smoke from wildfires including controlled burns:

•  Eye, nose, mouth and/or throat irritation
•  Coughing
•  Trouble breathing
•  Tightness of the chest; and/or
•  The onset of symptoms related to pre-existing respiratory ailments like asthma  or emphysema.  

If smoke from wildfires is affecting you and your family consider some of the following actions:

•  If you smell smoke and/or are beginning to experience symptoms, consider temporarily locating to another area as long as it is safe for you to do so.
•  Move indoors and stay there with doors and windows closed.
•  Run the air conditioning, the fan feature on your home heating system with the heat turned off. The filtration systems on home systems can provide some benefit.
•  Run room air filtration units.
•  Reduce your physical activity level. Do not exercise.

 If symptoms persist or become more severe, please contact your primary health care provider – even persons considered healthy can experience symptoms when exposed to smoke from wildfires!

There are a few population groups considered especially at risk from exposure to smoke from wildfires.

•  Elderly persons
•  Young children (especially children 7 and under)
•  Individuals with pre-existing health conditions like asthma, emphysema, and cardiovascular disease; and Individuals with respiratory infections like colds or flu.

The ADEQ Springerville smoke monitor is operational and can be viewed at http://www.phoenixvis.net/PPMmain.aspx.

While under a RED FLAG WARNING, the following restrictions go into effect during the advisory hours.

1. Building, maintaining, or attending a fire or campfire. *Propane heating and cooking devices are permissible.
2. Smoking outside a vehicle or a building.
3. Vehicle use off roads or trails.
4. Driving a vehicle without an approved spark arresting device.
5. Operating an internal combustion engine (unless the equipment has an approved spark arresting device AND is in an area completely devoid of vegetation) i.e. chainsaws, generators, hot saws, skidders, and other recreational or industrial equipment.
6. Welding, or operating an acetylene or other torch with an open flame.

The Springerville Ranger District on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests is planning to conduct prescribed fire operations April 21, 2017. The district plans to burn approximately 350 acres of the Aspen Meadows Unit, just North of Hall Ranch, off of Forest Service Road 117A and County Road 1325. Personnel will remain on scene monitoring the burn throughout the weekend as needed.

Ignitions will occur throughout the morning to minimize the adverse effects of smoke on the local communities. Smoke will be visible from Round Valley, Arizona State Highway 260, U.S. Highway60 and along Forest Road 117. Motorists are advised to drive safely when approaching areas where prescribed fire activities may limit visibility and hinder fire personnel operations.

If you have questions or concerns contact the Springerville Ranger District at 928-333-6200 or visit the ASNFs website at: www.fs.usda.gov/asnf