October 18, 2022 4:00 a.m.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has extended an Air Pollution Advisory in Douglas County through Friday afternoon at 4:00 p.m.

The Cedar Creek Fire near Oakridge combined with periods of easterly and northerly winds will cause smoke concentrations to increase. Air quality is expected to reach unhealthy levels at times within the county.

DEQ said smoke can irritate the eyes and lungs and worsen some medical conditions. People most at risk include infants and young children, people with heart or lung disease, older adults and pregnant women.

When smoke levels are high, the Advisory says residents should:

*Stay inside if possible. Keep windows and doors closed. If it’s too hot, run air conditioning on recirculate or consider moving to a cooler location. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity

*Use a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifiers

*Be aware of smoke nearby and avoid places with the highest levels

*Those with a breathing plan for a medical condition, should be sure to follow it and keep any needed medications refilled

DEQ said smoke levels can change rapidly depending on the weather. Check the current air conditions on the DEQ site linked: https://oraqi.deq.state.or.us/home/map