TELLER COUNTY, Colo. (KKTV) – While wildfire smoke is an ongoing concern in Teller County due to the nearly 100-acre Highland Lake Fire, Teller County health officials are urging people to take precautions to avoid the ill effects of that smoke.

The elderly, the very young, pregnant women, people with pre-existing lung or circulatory problems, and those with problems such as respiratory infections or allergies are most likely to be affected. However, Teller County Public Health and Environment (TCPHE) reminded the public Tuesday morning that wildfire smoke is not safe for anyone, even healthy people with no pre-existing health conditions.

TCPHE has the following tips for minimizing exposure:

-Stay inside, close windows and doors, but not so tightly that there is no circulation.

– Look for places that filter the air for temporary relief.

– Use HEPA room air filters if available.

– Avoid exercising outdoors and limit activities when smoke is thick.

– Drink plenty of water.

– Keep your bedroom windows closed at night, as the smoke gets worse at dawn.

– Ventilate your home when the smoke is not thick/dense.

– Cloth and surgical maps will not protect you from wildfire smoke. N95 masks can protect you from wildfire smoke.

Symptoms of wildfire smoke exposure include:

– Eye, nose, throat irritation, eye and/or nasal discharge

– Sore throat

– Cough

– Difficulty breathing or tightness in the chest

– Onset of asthma or emphysema symptoms

-Increased risk of catching a cold or other immune response within days of exposure

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