Wildfire smoke continues to impact Cook County. To help reduce smoke exposure, North Shore Health has a limited supply of non-medical N95 masks available while supplies last.
Mask Pickup:
- During normal business hours: Front entrance registration desk 6:00 am - 8:00 pm
- After hours: Emergency Department walk-in entrance
To help ensure as many people as possible have access, masks are limited to one (1) per household member.
If you are experiencing worsening shortness of breath, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms related to smoke exposure, please seek appropriate medical care and call 911 for emergencies.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work together to support our community during the ongoing wildfire response.
Cook County Public Health released information to help the public stay safe during periods of poor air quality:
When air quality is poor:
- Limit time outdoors and reduce strenuous outdoor activity, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms.
- Keep windows and doors closed when possible, unless doing so makes it difficult to maintain a safe temperature inside your home.
- If you have air conditioning, use the recirculation setting so that it is not pulling in outdoor air.
- Consider creating a cleaner-air space in your home and using a HEPA portable air cleaner, HVAC filtration, or another appropriate air filter if available.
- Avoid adding to indoor air pollution by smoking or vaping, burning candles or incense, or using aerosol products.
- Make sure you have needed medications available, particularly if you or someone in your household has asthma or another health condition that may be affected by smoke.
- If you need to be outdoors when smoke levels are high, a properly fitted N95 or similar respirator can help reduce exposure to fine particles. You can pick up free KN-95s at the PHHS Front Desk in the Cook County Courthouse.
- Pay attention to how you are feeling and take additional precautions if you begin experiencing symptoms.
Find the full news release here: https://cookcountymn.gov/news_detail_T6_R845.php
Take care,
Your North Shore Health Team