On April 1st, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued am Air Quality Health Advisory.
They say that the burning activity on Thursday, April 1st along with remnant smoke from Wednesday’s activity will heighten air pollutant levels throughout parts of the Flint Hills and Central Kansas.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) will range from Moderate to Unhealthy for sensitive groups, and unhealthy near burn activity (You can view the AQI or your area by visiting www.airnow.gov).
The KDHE offered guidance on how to protect your health on days when smoke is present in your community:
- Healthy individuals should limit or avoid strenuous outdoor exercise
- People with respiratory or heart related illnesses should remain indoors
- Keep indoor air clean by closing doors and windows and run air conditioners with filters
- Keep hydrated
- Contact your doctor if you experience chest pain/tightness, shortness of breath or severe fatigue.
You can learn more about the controlled burning in the Flint Hills and the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan at www.ksfire.org.
Meanwhile, City of Wichita officials are reminding residents that open burning in Wichita is restricted for the month of April.
The burn ban is imposed in 16 counties by the State of Kansas. Restricted activities include burning trees and brush from land clearing, crop residues, construction debris, yard waste, and the use of backyard chimneys/fire pits.
The Wichita Fire Department will be enforcing the open burning ban and no new burn permits will be issued. Previously issued burn permits will be suspended until at least May 1st, 2021. Live fire training will also be suspended during this time.
The ban does not include burn activity done in accordance to K.A.R. 28-19-648.
You can call (316) 268-4441 with any questions.
