Linn County Public Health Issues Air Quality Advisory:

Citizens living or working south to southeast of Sinclair property, particularly those with asthma and other respiratory conditions, are being urged to stay indoors, limit exercise and avoid outdoor activities due to smoke created from the fire. Staying inside with the doors and windows closed can greatly reduce exposure to ambient air pollution. It is further recommended that outdoor air intakes (a.k.a. fresh air intakes) to buildings should be closed. Public Health is not recommending that schools in the area close as the particulate pollution impacts the general community including homes in the area. Additionally, dispersion of the particulate pollution may change as the weather conditions, including wind direction, change as has been observed over the last few days.

Air quality monitoring initiated this morning by Linn County Public Health has revealed levels of particulate matter downwind of the Sinclair property at levels of 100 ug/m3 or greater. This includes areas surrounding the College Community School District Campus and Kirkwood Community College Campus. EPA has established 35 ug/m3 as the 24-hour standard protective of public health. Particulate matter - fine particles carried in the air created by the fire - can cause problems for people who have respiratory conditions including asthma and COPD.

Not everyone who is exposed to smoke will have health problems. The level and duration of exposure, age, individual susceptibility, including the presence or absence of pre-existing lung or heart disease, and other factors play significant roles in determining whether someone will experience smoke-related health problems. Exposure to environmental smoke can cause eye irritation, coughs, and sore throats. Those with asthma or allergies may experience more problems with exposure; exposure may also cause aggravation of pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

"Linn County Public Health will continue to monitor the areas affected by the fire in cooperation with the Cedar Rapids Fire Department.” Says Jim Hodina, Air Pollution Control Officer. “We are working closely with community partners to protect the health of the public and proactively provide guidance on strategies to reduce exposure to environmental hazards."

It is not necessary to visit an emergency room or physician for minor conditions such as eye irritation, coughing, or sneezing. However, more serious symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, or loss of consciousness, should prompt a visit to a physician. Symptoms may develop as late as a week after the smoke or dust exposure. People with asthma, other lung conditions, or heart disease may be more affected by the dust and smoke, and may need to see their healthcare provider.

The College Community School District is following the recommendations given by the Linn County Public Health to provide a safe environment.

Steve Doser
Community Relations/Foundation Director