[StBernard] St. Bernard Parish Marsh Fire Update at 4:30 p.m.

[Westley Annis]

Marsh Fire Update from St. Bernard Parish at 4:30 p.m.

 

St. Bernard Parish Government officials continue to be in contact with the
state Department of Environmental Quality and the National Weather Service
to monitor any potential impacts to St. Bernard from the marsh fire in the
Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge in eastern New Orleans.

 

"If conditions warrant us to take further action, we will notify the public
through our normal emergency notification means," St. Bernard Parish
President Craig P. Taffaro, Jr. said.

 

Furthermore, the St. Bernard Parish Recreation Department recently issued
this statement for St. Bernard parents of recreation players: 

 

"At the present time, the Recreation Department has NO information to lead
us to restrict Football or Cheerleading Practice due to the marsh fire
impacts. Any child who has any respiratory problems should use CAUTION if
they attend practice. The DEQ has not released any information that would
suggest an immediate threat to safety. No player should participate in
practice if there are any concerns by the parent and/or guardian. Please
contact the Recreation Department if you have any questions at (504)
278-4295."

In areas that may be affected by the smoke, the DEQ advises that the smoke
may cause respiratory irritation in children, adults, the elderly and people
who suffer with respiratory sensitivity or diseases such as asthma.  It is
recommended individuals avoid exposure to the smoke and avoid prolonged
outdoor activities and exertion.  Motorists are advised to use caution when
traveling in areas where smoke may cause brief periods of reduced
visibility.

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