What can I do to protect myself or prepare for possible health effects of vog?
· If you have asthma or other respiratory conditions, keep your medication refilled and use your daily (controller) medication as prescribed. Have your emergency or evacuation medications available. If you don’t have any medications, but feel you might need them, call your physician. Stay indoors, and close the windows and doors tightly; use an air conditioner with the vent closed and air re-circulated if possible. · Avoid physical activity (especially outdoors) such as brisk walking or exercise. · Drink liquids to avoid dehydration. · If you are having asthma symptoms such as trouble breathing, increased coughing or chest tightness, contact your doctor or seek medical assistance. If you live on the island of Hawai‘i, you should check for county civil defense advisories and consider leaving the area. Assume that your asthma may get worse during periods of high VOG and SO2 emissions. · FOR VOG and ASH ONLY: A damp cloth, or a paper, gauze surgical or non-toxic dust mask may be helpful.
