The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment (LCDHE) is providing guidance due to the poor air quality from the Alexander Mountain Fire. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has issued an air quality health advisory for the area, affecting everyone in Loveland, Big Thompson Canyon, and nearby locations. Health Officials are advising people in areas with visible smoke or odor to avoid outdoor exposure and reduce physical activity, both indoors and outdoors.

"If you can see or smell smoke, it's recommended that you avoid outdoor physical activities. We are advising schools, childcare centers, and youth camps in the impacted areas to suspend outside physical activities, including outdoor sport camps, until conditions improve," says Larimer County Public Health Director Tom Gonzales.

Sensitive individuals, such as those with heart disease, asthma, or other respiratory conditions, should stay indoors as much as possible, even if smoke or odor is not noticeable. Indoor sports and strenuous activities can continue in places with air conditioning systems that do not draw air from outside and have closed windows and doors.

Recommendations to Protect Yourself and Your Family:

• Monitor Air Quality: If you see or smell smoke or if the Air Quality Index (AQI) exceeds 150, keep outdoor activities short and light. This is especially true for pregnant people, children, elderly, and for those that have heart or lung conditions.
• Keep Indoor Air Clean: Close windows and doors and use air conditioners that recirculate indoor air and avoid using air conditioning units that draw in air from outside. Check and replace filters regularly, and consider using indoor air filtration devices with HEPA filters. If it's too hot inside, consider going to an air-conditioned public place like a library or shopping center for temporary relief.
• Watch for Symptoms: If you experience symptoms like severe coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, or unusual fatigue, contact your doctor immediately or visit an urgent care center.
• Stay Informed: Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) regularly at AirNow.gov.

For more information on air quality in Larimer County please visit www.larimer.gov/airquality.