Here in the Inland Empire, we’re used to extreme heat. But no one gets used to the threat of wildfires, even more so for those with medical conditions. Year after year, people across the state have had to flee with little notice, often in poor air quality conditions that can turn dangerous for those with asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or other chronic conditions. Pregnant women, children, and responders are also more susceptible to the effects of smoke inhalation.
Early prevention can reduce those risks. Every household, especially those with medical needs, should treat wildfire preparedness like a vital part of your health plan.
Unfortunately, the statistics show that not everyone is as prepared as they could be. According to Federal Emergency Management Agency research, despite 80 percent of respondents to the 2019 National Household survey saying they had gathered enough supplies to last three or more days, just 48 percent said they had an emergency action plan.
Dr. Koushik Kasanagottu, a primary care physician with Optum in San Bernardino, shares his experience of how quickly wildfire exposure can trigger ER visits, hospitalizations, and long-term respiratory issues and why having a plan is so important.