Frequently asked questions about the wildfire in Västmanland
Frequently asked questions about the wildfire in Västmanland
12 August 2014
published by www.ltdalarna.se
Sweden — The cloud of smoke is spread over large parts of Västmanland and Dalarna. The smoke is not toxic but can be irritating to the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and respiratory tract. If you experience symptoms because of the smoke, you should stay indoors. If you have heart or lung disease, it is important that you take your medications as prescribed. If you have asthma, you may need to increase your dose as previous prescription.
Where should I go with general questions about the fire?
Call the national information number 11313.
You can also visithttp://www.krisinformation.se/
When should I seek medical care?
You should seek care at
– difficulty breathing
– chest pain
– severe cough
– palpable fatigue
– or lack of energy.
– Call 1177 for healthcare advice, or if you are unsure where to turn.
– In acute disorders – call 112.
Can I get permanent injuries from the smoke?
No, you can have occasional discomfort but no lasting or permanent harm. The smoke from the wildfire is not toxic, unlike, for example, when plastic burns and form dangerous gases.
If I get soot in my lungs – is it dangerous?
If you are near a fire and inhaling thick smoke, you´ll get soot particles that are irritating to the respiratory tract. It is not dangerous but if you have a lung disease it may temporarily worsen.
I have COPD. Is the smoke harmful to me?
You may be more affected by the smoke. Therefore it is important that you take your medications as prescribed and stay indoors.
I have allergies. Is the smoke harmful to me?
You may be more affected by the smoke. Therefore it is important that you take your medications as prescribed and stay indoors.
I have asthma. Is the smoke harmful to me?
You may be more affected by the smoke. Therefore it is important that you take your medications as prescribed and stay indoors.
If you have asthma, you may need to increase your dose as previously prescribed.
I have heart disease. Is the smoke harmful to me?
You may have trouble with chest pain or shortness of breath. Therefore, it is important that you take your medicines as prescribed and at the acute symptoms to seek care.
I’m pregnant. Can my child get harmed?
No. Your child can not be harmed.
Does food that come in contact with the smoke get affected ?
Food is not affected. Rinse fruits and vegetables as usual.
Does it affect the drinking water?
Do not drink water that has clear foreign smell or taste. Have questions about your drinking water, contact the Environmental office in your municipality.
If I seal the house against the smoke – can the air run out?
A home is never completely sealed tight. There is no risk that the air runs out. However, the heat can become a nuisance.
My child has asthma. What should I consider?
For children with asthma it is like for adults with asthma that they are more sensitive to the smoke than others.
Contact the doctor if your child gets added trouble.
I have an infant. What should I consider?
Infants, children under 1 year are generally more sensitive in their airways than older children and adults. It is good to the extent possible, avoid exposing infants to the smoke. If adults feel bothered by the smoke, they should avoid exposing the baby to smoke. It is in such cases best to stay indoors with the windows closed.
