High Park Fire Affects Air Quality

FORT COLLINS, Colo. (CBS4) - Heavy smoke is clouding the skies across much of the northern part of the Front Range Sunday as a result of the High Park Fire burning west of Fort Collins.

The poor air quality can be an issue for people with breathing problems and small children.

"Due to continuing wind and weather changes impacting the High Park wildfire near Rist Canyon, the air quality in Larimer County could cause breathing difficulties, especially for people susceptible to respiratory conditions," Larimer County officials wrote in a prepared statement.

Health officials suggested avoiding outdoor physical activities and keeping windows shut to keep the smoke out. They also suggested checking the filter if you are running an air conditioner.

"If visibility is decreased in your neighborhood to less than five miles, smoke has reached levels that are unhealthy," they wrote.

Health officials also say older adults are more likely to be affected by smoke, as they have higher levels of heart or lung diseases than younger people.

"Follow your doctor's advice about medicines and about your respiratory management plan if you have asthma or another lung disease. Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen."

LINK: Larimer County Wildfire Health Advisory

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