Larimer County, CO --- The Chambers Lake / Cameron Peak wildfire burning in northwest Larimer County is causing air quality concerns for residents in Northern Colorado.

Due to wildfire smoke transported into the Front Range, Ozone and Fine Particulate concentrations could reach levels that impact people sensitive to poor air quality at times through Friday evening across the Colorado Front Range region. 

The most significant air quality impacts are expected to be for locations within the Denver Metro area, as well as northward along the I-25 corridor to Fort Collins, including areas west of I-25 within the lower foothills. 

In all these areas, people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion on Friday. For all other areas within the Front Range, sensitive individuals should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion until the air quality improves.

When air quality is impacted by fire, minimizing physical activity outdoors is recommended, particularly for children and anyone with lung diseases such as asthma. This is especially true for those with heart disease, respiratory illnesses, the very young, and the elderly. If able, it is recommended staying indoors until air quality improves. 

“We are urging everyone to be aware and take appropriate precautions by staying indoors as much as practical and limit time spent doing outdoors activities,”  says Shaun May, Environmental Health Services Director for the Department of Health and Environment. “Now is not the right time to go for a bike ride or take a hike. We can also help out by reducing air pollution by limiting vehicle usage by postponing trips or carpooling.” 

Questions or concerns about air quality can be directed to 970-498-5500.