With high pollution levels in the air due to soot throughout Los Angeles, most people are now using masks and air purifiers to breathe.

According to experts, five people have died so far due to the forest fire, but officials say the death toll is likely to be higher. More than 9,000 structures have already been destroyed or damaged and 1,30,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate. Experts say LA is not out of danger yet and the fires are likely to be the costliest and deadliest wildfire disaster in US history.

Fires filled with plastic, asbestos and other toxins from homes and businesses are spreading across several Los Angeles neighborhoods. Most people are complaining of burning sensation in eyes and throat.

Microplastic is the most dangerous

Experts say that micro particles are entering the lungs, which is worrying. Apart from the immediate effects, many of its long-term side effects are also a matter of concern.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says tiny particles are some of the most health-damaging air pollutants — linked to a variety of chronic and deadly health problems. Throughout Southern California, most people are taking precautions as the air quality index — a measurement that includes fine particles — has reached dangerous levels in some neighborhoods, including Pasadena.

Most of the air purifiers at Home Depot around Central Los Angeles are sold out.

Most of the people suffer from respiratory problems

According to Dr. Puneet Gupta, assistant medical director of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, emergency room doctors told him Most people have trouble breathing Coming by ambulance, driving himself and with his family.

“Conditions are constantly changing with changes in wind and wind speed. Gupta said it is important to take precautions like wearing a mask and staying indoors even after a fire because the air quality can remain poor for a long time.

Doctors say they are mostly concerned about very fine particles, which can carry toxins deep into the lungs and bloodstream, potentially causing heart and lung problems. When houses and cars made of toxic materials burn, the danger increases further.

Therefore, it is important to wear an N-95 respirator outside and carry medicine and emergency inhalers for people with asthma or other respiratory problems.

How do you protect yourself from the ill effects of smoking?

Experts suggest that if you are living in an area with poor air quality, you should stay indoors and reduce activity levels. And if that’s not possible, there are some precautions you can take, including:

• Wear an N95 mask to limit exposure
• Use a portable air cleaner to reduce indoor air pollution.
• If you have filters on your home HVAC system, make sure they are up to date and of high quality.
• Run the air conditioning in your home and car on the recirculation setting to keep outside air from coming in.
• Don’t contribute to indoor air pollution by burning candles or using gas, propane, wood-burning stoves, fireplaces or aerosol sprays.
• Do not fry or boil meat
• Stop smoking tobacco products or vacuum

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