State monitoring Kauaʻi brush fire for air quality, behaviorial health impacts

As a brush fire that began Monday continues to burn in Hanapēpē, forcing the evacuation of Kaumakani residents, the Hawaiʻi Department of Health is monitoring air quality and behaviorial health impacts on residents and visitors.

The public is advised to be prepared for and aware of their surrounding conditions.

The state Health Department encourages those impacted by the fire to take appropriate action to protect against smoke exposure.

Additional information to plan, prepare and protect yourself before, during and after a wildfire can be found at the American Lung Association’s website.

People with asthma should prepare for poor air quality conditions caused by the fire by having an evacuation plan and kit of emergency supplies, including their asthma medications.

If evacuation is not necessary, designate a room that can be closed off from outside air. People with asthma are also encouraged to have an asthma action plan, which includes:

• Signs to look for when symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath get worse.
• Medicines to take based on signs, symptoms or peak flow measurements (if used).
• Instructions for breathing emergencies.

For more information and to download an asthma action plan, click here.

Hawaiʻi CARES is also available for those experiencing mental health impacts related to the fire.

The Hawaiʻi CARES 988 crisis line is available 24/7 for anyone in need of support. Text 988 or call 1-800-753-6879 or 808-832-3100 to access the crisis line.