MIDLAND, Texas — With all the smoke in the air from the fires in the Texas Panhandle, people are eventually going to smell it or even breathe it in.
According to Midland Physician Dr. John Bray, breathing in smoke from wildfires can cause respiratory issues, especially in people that are older or have conditions like asthma, pulmonary diseases, cardiac issues and others.
When it comes to areas like the Permian Basin, it's not just the smoke people have to worry about. Other things on top of it can affect the air quality too.
"Anytime there's smoke, it's not good for anybody," Dr. Bray said. "Any kind of high dust particles out here is not really good for anybody. Now how much of an effect it has on you, it depends on the concentration, risk factors and how long you're out in it. But if you can avoid it that's just smart."
The best way to avoid smoke or poor air in general is to stay inside and keep the windows shut.
But not everyone, either because of work or other necessary reasons, can just ride out the bad air indoors. Luckily there are ways they can still protect themselves.
“If they have a good mask, like a level three surgical mask or a PN95 mask or a K95 mask that would clearly help," Dr. Bray said. "The problem with that of course is they’re uncomfortable and if you’re doing heavy work out in the oilfield, trying to keep one of those on, especially if its hot, is very difficult. But if you can do it or you’re just sitting around in your truck or just walking around out there and can keep one on then yes it would be smart to do it.”
Dr. Bray also said having a high-quality 3M air-conditioning filters and HEPA ultra fine air filters are good investments for people with respiratory issues.