North Carolina Fires may cause problems in the Lowcountry

DHEC determines NC wildfire smoke might impact SC COLUMBIA, S.C. Residents of several South Carolina counties should be aware of possible health effects related to smoke from a wildfire in Pender County, N.C., the state Department of Health as well as Environmental Control reported today. Depending on wind conditions, the following counties could be affected for the Independence Day weekend: Berkeley, Charleston, Clarendon, Dillon, Dorchester, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Marion, Orangeburg as well as Williamsburg. Smoke from this glow has been noticeable in eastern as well as northern parts of the state. The smoke can irritate the eyes as well as respiratory system, as well as worsen chronic heart as well as lung diseases. DHEC recommends people with respiratory health issues limit time spent outdoors to avoid the smoke. Keep windows as well as doors closed. Run an air conditioner if you have one, but keep the fresh-air intake closed as well as the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside. For more information, please visit DHEC's website at: http://www.scdhec.gov/environment/baq/WildfireInformation/.