THE Ministry of Health is warning residents in the Corporate Area and sections of St. Catherine, particularly those residents living in the immediate vicinity of the Riverton City landfill, to take the necessary action to protect themselves until the fire and associated smoke from the landfill is brought under control.

The ministry said landfill fires emit a variety of pollutants that have the potential to affect the health of the persons exposed to the smoke.

Affected persons may experience headache, dizziness, irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, coughing and other symptoms.

Residents are being encouraged to:

• Avoid or reduce exposure to smoke by closing window and doors and remain indoors as much as possible. This is especially so for those persons who suffer from allergies, asthma and other respiratory conditions, the elderly and young;

• Cover nose and mouth with a clean wet rag or cloth to minimise effects of the smoke; 
• Avoid exposing laundry outdoors since these can become contaminated, stained and foul smelling;
• Visit the nearest health facility or doctor if you start having shortness of breath, wheezing or severe coughing.

The ministry says it has been in constant dialogue with senior executives at the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management and other relevant agencies on the matter, with a view to correcting the situation as soon as possible.

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