Oxygen mobilised as Los Angeles health centres feel strain from fires

Attention is turning to medical support in Los Angeles following the devastating wildfires which have swept through the west coast city.

Direct Relief is among the organisations mobilising into action. It has a long-standing commitment to supporting communities affected by wildfires, supplying critical resources such as oxygen concentrators, air purifiers and medical equipment to health centres in fire-prone areas.

While fire grabs the headlines – to date, more than 92 fires have been reported and 29,053 acres affected – smoke provides widespread and enduring exposure risks. Wildfire smoke is a mixture of small particles, gases and water vapour.

With wildfires raging across Southern California, fanned by strong winds, local municipalities are issuing air quality alerts. Masks can protect against larger particles, but most don’t block fine particles or toxic gases.