Health officials remind Lincolnites to monitor air quality amid burning season

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Controlled burns in Nebraska and surrounding states this spring could harm air quality in Lincoln, health officials said Friday.

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department is encouraging people to monitor the Air Quality Index during the burning season.

The department monitors air quality 24/7 and will issue an advisory if controlled burns or wildfires are affecting conditions.

Officials said breathing smoke can cause health problems, especially for children and older adults.

It can also harm those with asthma, lung disease and other respiratory or heart conditions.

People at risk are asked to stay inside when the air quality is poor.

You can find current air quality conditions at AirNow.gov.