SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 News) - If your eyes are watering and there's an in itch in your throat, you can probably thank the smoke sitting in the valley.
The pollution in the air isn't just annoying, it is potentially dangerous.
Steve Packham, the Toxicologist with the Utah Division of Air Quality said, "Smoke irritates the eyes, ears and throat."
The junk in the air is called particulates. Our body is built to deal with them, but only to a certain point.
Packham said, "We don't want to breath so much so the defense is over powered."
The problem is even more of a concern with people who have breathing problems.
Kellie Baxter with the Utah Asthma Program told ABC4, "For people with asthma the pollution in the air can cause asthma symptoms and even an attack. This is more serious for people with asthma."
The best way to protect ourselves, is just stay inside.
If you have to be outside you can use a face mask or a bandanna to keep the particulates out. Also change your air filter every ninety days to help keep your inside air as clean as possible.
