BANNING – (INT) – People living downwind from the Apple Fire aren’t breathing too deeply and are being encouraged to avoid the smoke and ash.

Dr. Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County public health officer, recommends that those who live in the impacted areas should avoid strenuous activity, remain indoors with the air-conditioning on and windows and doors closed. Also, keep the indoor air fresh with a clean filtering system to prevent from bringing smoke inside.

Wildfire smoke can cause a range of health issues, which include burning eyes, runny nose, shortness of breath, scratchy throat, headaches and chest pains. Smoke can also worsen chronic heart and lung disease.

Smoke from the out-of-control fire fills the skies from the San Gorgonio Pass, into the Coachella Valley and across the Morongo Basin.

Story Date: August 4, 2020