The death toll from California fires rises amid horrific scenes…and a new warning to residents (photos)

On Saturday, Los Angeles health authorities issued warnings to residents about the health risks associated with smoke from wildfires that swept across vast areas of the city. Citizens were asked to stay in their homes to avoid exposure to polluted air.

The Los Angeles County coroner announced that the fires had claimed the lives of at least 16 people, and identified the locations of the victims. Five of them were found in the Palisades fire area and 11 others were found in the Eaton fire.

Los Angeles, the second largest city in the United States, is witnessing huge fires that have sent toxic clouds covering the atmosphere, prompting the Public Health Department to warn of their dangerous effects.

“Fire smoke consists of small particles and toxic fumes that can cause sore throats and headaches,” Anish Mahajan of the Public Health Department said in a press conference, stressing the importance of taking necessary precautions to avoid direct exposure to polluted air.
He continued: “In areas where smoke is visible or there is a smell of smoke, and even in places where you cannot see (smoke), we know that the air quality is poor, so you must limit your exposure to the open air as much as possible.”

According to Mahagan, people who are in good health should also stay indoors as much as possible and use an air purification system.

He recommended that those who have to work outdoors wear a mask to protect against fine particles.

As for young people, the elderly, and the sick, they should especially be careful. (Sky News)