EPA Memo: Use caution during smoky conditions

VIEW FULL MEMO HERE

The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe (SRST) Department of Environmental Regulations /EPA office continues its recommendation that residents limit prolonged outdoor activities during smoky
conditions across North Dakota, especially residents with known respiratory conditions.

Particulate matter, which consists of extremely small particles of soot and ash, have been  increasing across the area over the last several hours. Particulate matter can cause irritation
to the respiratory system, especially those who suffer from allergies, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During this period of smoky conditions, the Department recommends the elderly and young children to limit or completely avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure.

The smoke in the area is resulted from wildfires in Canada and is expected to remain in the area throughout the week. The Standing Rock EPA department will monitor the Air Quality
Index and update the alert as necessary.

Primary Pollutant
This pollutant currently has the highest AQI in the area.

186 PM2.5

Unhealthy
People with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teens – take any of these steps to
reduce your exposure:
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Keep outdoor activities short.
Consider moving physical activities indoors or rescheduling them.

 

The Department continues to monitor the changing conditions through the nationwide air quality network. As a reminder, those who are experiencing difficulty breathing or respiratory distress during these smokyconditions should seek out assistance from medical providers. Informational resrouces and interactive maps can be found at:

https://www.airnow.gov/state/?name=north-dakota https://gispub.epa.gov/airnow/?showgreencontours=false