The Director of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), Dr. Tomas Aragon, emphasized the importance of maintaining mental wellbeing amidst the ongoing wildfires in the state. Dr. Aragon highlighted the significance of positive social connections during traumatic events, stating that connecting with others is crucial for emotional support.
Dr. Aragon acknowledged that the emotions triggered by the fires could be overwhelming and encouraged residents to reach out to others for assistance. He directed individuals in need of professional mental health services to mentalhealth.ca.gov for support.
In addition to addressing mental health concerns, Dr. Aragon also cautioned Californians about the dangers of wildfire smoke, emphasizing that the smoke can travel vast distances, affecting individuals even if they are not in close proximity to the fires. He advised residents to monitor air quality in their neighborhoods and use air purifiers to maintain clean indoor air.
Furthermore, Dr. Aragon recommended wearing N95 masks to reduce exposure to harmful particulates present in the smoke. He explained that these masks can help mitigate both short-term and long-term health effects caused by inhaling smoke particles, which can lead to inflammation and potential symptoms weeks after exposure.
As wildfires continue to impact communities across California, Dr. Aragon's guidance serves as a reminder for residents to prioritize their mental and physical health while taking necessary precautions to safeguard against the hazards of wildfire smoke.
