Sacramento is distributing special masks to unsheltered people and residents as smoke in the region reaches very unhealthy levels.
Daniel Bowers, the city's director of emergency management, says the masks will be available at local fire stations. But he added that the city is not advising that people come get one.
"The guidance is still paramount stay indoors and limit outdoor activity,” Bowers said.
He explained that the prolonged effect of smoke inhalation can take its toll, especially on the elderly and young people.
"If you've got young children, please, I know you want to get them out to the park, let them burn off some energy, but you’ve really got to keep them inside during these smoky days,” Bowers said.
The fire stations are giving away P95 or P100 model masks, and firefighters are available to show people how to wear them properly.
Website PurpleAir says smoke conditions in the Sacramento region on Monday are at "emergency" levels. The Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District forecasts unhealthy air quality for the county and region for Monday and Tuesday, and has suspended residential wood burning.
The city gave masks to homeless services nonprofit Loaves and Fishes and its “impact” team that works with unsheltered people.
The city canceled Monday’s Veteran's Day parade due to smoke.
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