The Cedar Creek Fire continues to bring hazardous smoke into Sunriver and can be expected while the fire remains active. 

Smoke is a form of air pollution that can pose serious health risks – even to a healthy person. Wildfire smoke is made up primarily of small particles, gases, and water vapor. These particles can enter the bloodstream and be inhaled into the lungs, damaging lung tissue and causing respiratory and cardiovascular problems. 

In an effort to protect workers, when air quality reaches 151 or above, SROA's staff may work on a modified schedule to limit smoke exposure (including the closure of pools, offices, etc.). SROA is following OSHA/Oregon regulations to protect workers from wildfire smoke. 

Symptoms of smoke exposure can include:

• Watery or dry eyes
• Persistent cough, phlegm, wheeze, scratchy throat, or irritated sinuses
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath, asthma attack, or lung irritation
• Irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or fatigue

Central Oregon Fire Info offers the following guidelines to minimize the impacts of smoke on your and your family.  

• Limit your exposure and reduce time outdoors when smoke is present. This can provide some protection, especially in a tightly closed, air-conditioned home. Set your A/C or heating unit to recycle or recirculate when at home or in your car, to limit your exposure.
• Reduce the time you engage in vigorous activity. This can be an important, effective way to lower the amount of smoke you are breathing in. It can minimize health risks during a smoke event.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water.
• Reduce other sources of indoor smoke and dust. These can be burning cigarettes, candles, gas or propane ranges, wood burning stoves and furnaces, and vacuuming.
• If you have heart or lung disease or respiratory illnesses such as asthma, follow your health care provider’s advice about prevention and treatment of symptoms.
• More vulnerable or smoke sensitive persons may consider using an indoor high-efficiency air filter (HEPA) or electrostatic precipitator for your home or to help create one or more rooms with cleaner air to breathe.
• Close doors and windows to prevent outside smoke from getting inside and keep indoor air clean.