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Keys to Active Listening


by Jennifer Fairweather, Human Resources Director
comments open from November 21 until December 10


The end of the year tends to be a busy time for many -- between work and family obligations as well as preparing for the various holiday celebrations. Because of the many activities going on, the opportunities for miscommunication abound. Now is a great time to refocus on active listening skills. Active listening not only prevents miscommunication, but it can also increase productivity, minimize potential conflicts and prevent costly mistakes.

So what are the keys to active listening?
>> First, focus your attention on the speaker while removing any distractions. Distractions can include noises such as music, television or other people engaging in a conversation. Other distractions can include things such as checking your email or merely thinking about something else.

>> Second, let the speaker know you are listening. Simple gestures such as nodding or short responses such as “o.k.” are helpful. Maintaining eye contact is important as well.

>> Third, make sure you understood the message by clarifying your understanding of what was said. This is a critical component of minimizing any miscommunication.

Whether communicating at work, out in public or with family, active listening is key to effective communication.

 
 

Another Effort in the Ongoing Quest by Fleet Services to Save Fuel


by Buck Benke, Fleet Division Director
comments open from Nov. 3 until Nov. 22

The recent snow reminds us that winter is close at hand in Colorado. The colder weather and the snowy days make it tough to get going in the morning, even for our county equipment. But thanks in part to a grant from the Regional Air Quality Council, Jefferson County is installing "pre-heaters" to the engines of many pieces of equipment to make those chilly mornings a little easier on our vehicles, more cost-efficient, and better for the environment.

Rather than having to "warm-up" or idle vehicles before use, the new Fuel Operated Heaters use a timer to pre-heat a vehicle's engine. These timers ready the vehicle engine to a set temperature between 110 - 160 degrees. Instead of idling for 20-30 minutes, the equipment driver can jump in the cab, start up the vehicle and just get started with the task at hand.

Conservative estimates show that Jeffco should save approximately 4,000 gallons of fuel, which based on today's cost equates to almost $14,000 per year, with the new heaters in this first phase of installations. This also means less emissions polluting the air as the county will reduce its carbon footprint by 45 tons of carbon dioxide per year, while also saving money.

A similar method of warming vehicles is to plug them in to electrical outlets over night. This constant flow of electricity is costly, requires a lot of outlets and doesn't work for equipment already on job sites within the county that don’t have electricity. With the new technology, the county will save about half the amount paid in electrical costs.

This technology has been tested with great success by a few other metro organizations including the City of Englewood and buses for Boulder Valley School District. Vehicles equipped with these pre-heaters will be at our South Shop, Shaffers Crossing (near Conifer), the Central Shop and a few Open Space trucks. The program will be constantly evaluated and potentially grow and be added to more county equipment and vehicles in the future.

 
 

Apply for Your Passport at Jefferson County


by Jeffco Public Information
comments open from Oct. 18 until Nov. 6

Did you know that you can apply for a passport with Jefferson County? The Jefferson County Clerk & Recorder's Office is a designated Passport Acceptance Facility for the U.S. Department of State.

U.S. citizens planning to travel internationally may apply for their passports Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Admin & Courts Facility, Suite 2560, 100 Jefferson County Parkway in Golden. Passport photos can also be done at the Clerk & Recorder's office for $5.

No appointment is needed and there are no long lines. However, it is advised to call ahead to get all the important details specific to your travel plans and passport needs.

For more information on passport services, visit the Clerk & Recorder's webpage on passports or call 303-271-8167. For locations and services of the Clerk & Recorder's Office, visit www.jeffco.us/cr.

 
 

Understanding your Health Insurance Plan


by Jennifer Fairweather, Human Resources Director
comments open from August 31 until September 19


For people who are enrolled in a health insurance plan, one of the key mistakes that can be made is to make assumptions about the coverage associated with a particular service.

In order to fully understand and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses and ensure you obtain coverage at the maximum levels possible, it is critical to understand your plan prior to obtaining services. Key things you should pay attention to include:
>> the type of plan you have (PPO, for example)
>> how services are covered (copayment vs. coinsurance)
>> and if you have any deductibles that must be met.

Also, pay attention to whether you can use services outside of a particular network or if a referral is required to utilize certain types of physicians.

Remember, it’s always better to ask questions and have pre-authorizations completed before having any procedures performed since in most cases nothing can be done after the fact. Carefully read Summary Plan Description and Evidence of Coverage.

And remember -- your benefits plan administrator is also a great resource!

 
 

2011 National Electrical Code (NEC) Updates


by Becky Baker, Building Safety Division Director
comments open from August 12 until August 31


On June 29, the Division of Building Safety offered a free class for contractors at the Jeffco Fairgrounds on the 2011 National Electrical Code (NEC) updates.

Every three years the Colorado State Electrical Board adopts the newest version of the electrical codes. Due to the many changes, the Division felt it was essential to the community to offer this class. With the steady introduction to new products and technologies in the market place, plus new research and findings, revisions are a necessity. The 2011 NEC went into effect on July 1, 2011.

Jeffco Inspector, Jim Gordon, presented a three hour PowerPoint slide show that was well attended. Over 200 electricians signed up for this class using an online form. A handout was provided for future reference and to follow along with the over 100 changes discussed. Judging by the attendance and the follow up email below the class was a great success and very much appreciated.


On behalf of our company - thank you for the nice presentation. All the guys really appreciated the time you all put into it. The explanations of changes really mean so much more coming from an inspector’s perspective.
Thanks again.
~ Louis

 
 

Expansion of the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge


A letter from the Jefferson County Commissioners
comments open from August 1 until August 20

The US Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to expand the boundary of the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge. In an effort to support the Fish and Wildlife Service to preserve more wildlife habitat, Jefferson County has been partnering with private land owners and organizations including Boulder County, the city of Boulder, Colorado State Board of Land Commissioners and the Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority. The below letter from the Board of County Commissioners to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service was submitted by Jefferson County as part of the Fish and Wildlife Service's public process on evaluating the expansion of the Refuge. Visit www.fws.gov/rockyflats/ to become involved in the process.

July 28, 2011

Dear Mr. Dixon:

Thank you for the opportunity to submit Jefferson County’s comments on the scoping process for the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) Environmental Assessment (EA).

Section 1.7, Adjacent Land Protection, of the 2004 Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge Environmental Impact Statement and Comprehensive Conservation Plan (EIS/CCP) identifies the importance of the protection of lands outside the Refuge’s boundary. Specifically, the EIS/CCP states the “protection of the grassland habitat that buffers the Refuge’s western boundary (east of Highway 93) is important for the health of ungulate populations that migrate from the foothills down to the prairie.” Further, it states “degradation of this habitat may deter wildlife from migrating to the Refuge and threaten existing ungulate populations that reside and/or calve within the Refuge” and allows the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to pursue habitat-protection partnerships.

Jefferson County, in collaboration with many entities including Boulder County, the City of Boulder, Colorado State Board of Land Commissioners (State Land Board), the Jefferson Parkway Public Highway Authority (JPPHA), and mineral interest owners, proposes a land exchange (Jefferson Greenway Proposal) that involves the expansion of the Refuge boundary and elimination of private mineral interests in the Refuge. The Jefferson Greenway Proposal is a viable, comprehensive habitat-protection partnership, and should be selected as the EA Preferred Alternative under a Finding of No Significant Impact.

The Jefferson Greenway Proposal would eliminate significant mining encumbrances within the existing Refuge boundaries. The exercise of these existing privately owned mineral rights, particularly surface mining of gravel and other aggregate material, on the Refuge would have an adverse impact on the management of the Refuge. In fact, Section 3177(e)(2) of the Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge Act of 2001 (Act) would not be met if certain mineral rights are exercised. Acquisition of these mineral rights was so important to the Federal Government, that the 2006 Defense Reauthorization Act authorized $10 million to purchase essential mineral rights on the Refuge. Jefferson County and its partners have worked with the owners of the essential mineral rights and will be able to protect the Refuge by funding the cancellation of the majority of these rights.
The Jefferson Greenway Proposal would also expand the Refuge to include Rocky Flats Section 16 (Section 16), which is home to rare and endangered plant and wildlife species. For example, the Colorado Natural Heritage Program notes that the bald eagle and Ottoe skipper butterfly make use of Section 16. The Woman Creek drainage on the north end of Section 16 serves as habitat for the Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse and provides a wildlife movement corridor. A five year-study conducted by ESCO Associates found a rare example of xeric tallgrass prairie on Section 16 that contains more than 50 native species. In general, grasslands are regarded as among the most imperiled ecosystems in North America.

As shown on the map, habitat protection in this region is a major focus area through Jefferson County Open Space’s Heritage Conservation Program. Acquisition and preservation of Section 16 will accomplish Jefferson County’s goals as well as USFWS goals of enabling wildlife to migrate to and from the Refuge, and sustaining wildlife populations at the interface of mountains and prairies on Colorado's Front Range. It will help ensure open space connectivity from Standley Lake to the Golden Gate Canyon State Park.


The Jefferson Greenway Proposal is a viable, well-analyzed, and advantageous proposal. It represents over $17 million of property interests conveyed to the United States or removed as encumbrances. The Jefferson Greenway Proposal elements and accomplishments to date are summarized as follows:

1. Jefferson County acquires the McKay clay, gravel, and rock mineral interests in approximately 128 acres of Section 9 within the Refuge’s existing boundaries for $2,800,000. The County conveys these mineral interests to the United States.

2. Lafarge West, Inc. (Lafarge) is awarded $3,316,000 of Natural Resource Damages grant funds for the purchase and cancellation of its leased mining interests in portions of the Refuge’s existing boundaries. Jefferson County, Boulder County, and the City of Boulder have formally supported Lafarge’s proposal and on July 19, 2011, the Trustee Council for Natural Resources at Rocky Flats adopted a resolution approving the Lafarge proposal. $2,566,000 of the grant is contingent on the County’s acquisition of the McKay minerals and their subsequent transfer to the United States.

3. The State Board of Land conveys 617 surface acres of Section 16 to the United States for incorporation in the Refuge. The sale price of $9,437,000 would be paid by Jefferson County, Boulder County, the City of Boulder and other contributors. Jefferson County, Boulder County and the City of Boulder have executed an Intergovernmental Agreement dated May 3, 2011, under which Jefferson County has committed $5,100,000, Boulder County $2,000,000, and the City of Boulder $2,000,000 towards transfer of Section 16 to the United States. These partners have been working diligently to secure the remaining funds for the Section 16 surface and other property interests. For example, the City of Arvada has agreed to commit $300,000. Jefferson County is optimistic that within a short period of time the remaining funds will be secured.

4. The State Land Board conveys the Section 16 mineral estate to the United States in exchange for mineral interests to be determined. On June 3, 2011, the State Land Board initiated the disposal of the 617 surface acres of Section 16 to the United States and the exchange of the Section 16 mineral estate with the United States.

5. The Section 16 sand and gravel lease held by Lafarge is acquired and cancelled. Lafarge has offered to sell its rights on Section 16 to Jefferson County, Boulder County, and the City of Boulder for a reduced price.

6. The Section 16 McKay recreation and grazing leases are cancelled. Once Section 16 is conveyed to the United States, a grazing permit is issued to McKay.

7. The JPPHA obtains title to the 300 foot wide transportation corridor (Transportation Corridor) along the eastern edge of the Refuge. The JPPHA has met the conditions of the Act, including the demonstration of available funding for the parkway and its inclusion on the Fiscally-Constrained 2035 Regional Transportation Plan adopted by the Denver Regional Council of Governments, has submitted an application for the divestment of the Transportation Corridor, and has authorized the expenditure of $2.8 million for the Transportation Corridor.

Please note that many financial contributions to the Jefferson Greenway Proposal are contingent on JPPHA receiving the Transportation Corridor.

Given the substantial due diligence and conservation leadership that Jefferson County and its partners have demonstrated relative to the Jefferson Greenway Proposal, the Board of County Commissioners believes this is a viable proposal and has direct benefit to the Refuge, meeting and enhancing the purposes for which the Refuge was established: to restore and preserve native ecosystems; provide habitat for and population management of native plants and migratory and resident wildlife; conserve threatened and endangered species; and provide opportunities for compatible scientific research.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the scoping process for the expansion of the Refuge.

Sincerely,
BOARD OF JEFFERSON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Faye Griffin, Chairman
Donald Rosier
John Odom

 
 

Walk This Way Into Open Space


by Open Space Public Information Office
comments open from July 27 until August 15

An entryway as informative as it is evocative of a Park experience now ushers visitors into the Open Space building, thanks to a renovation Open Space staff designed and executed.

“We had three objectives: promote who we are to the public; bring our outdoor park elements into the interior of the building; and have most of the work done by Open Space staff,” said Tom Hoby, Director of Parks and Open Space.



Before the renovation, visitors would often overlook the main entrance and try entering through doors used for Open Space Advisory Committee meetings, which are generally locked during the day. Now, that same entry is marked by a pergola with the Open Space name to clearly designate it to the outside world.

Inside, visitors step onto a carpeted path. Along the way are informational kiosk panels, silhouettes on the ceiling of raptors, and scenic Park images playing out on a flat-screen monitor. A sculpture of a mountain range includes barn wood from Hildebrand Park, with signatures in pencil dating to the early 1900s; and the new reception desk incorporates pine beetle–stained wood from Open Space Parks.

At a grand opening celebration on July 7, Hoby and OSAC co-vice chair Jan Wilkins recognized the contributions of Open Space staff central to the renovation. Bridgit Coffman, graphic design specialist, and Lance Henkel, an Open Space planner, designed the entry. A Park Construction crew directed by supervisor Tim Redmond performed 80 percent of the work.

Stop by Open Space and experience the difference that staff made . . . and the new entry makes.

 
 

The Summer Sun is Here!


by Jennifer Fairweather, Human Resources Director
comments open from July 20 until August 8


Taking the effort to protect your skin will help you enjoy the beautiful summer weather in Colorado. Living in this sunny and elevated state is a wonderful perk, but it also increases our risk of skin damage. In fact, Colorado is 30% higher than the national average on melanoma rates, melanoma being the potentially deadly form of skin cancer. The National Cancer Institute reports that our community, Jefferson County, has an average of 133 diagnosed melanoma cases each year.

Even though the risk is real, that doesn’t mean you need to completely avoid the sun to stay healthy. One great way to prevent skin damage is sunscreen. Keep these factors in mind when making decisions on which sunscreen to purchase and applying sunscreen to yourself and your family:
• Buy sunscreen that is labeled as ‘broad spectrum.’ UVA rays are responsible for the deeper skin damage and UVB ones for the outer layers. The FDA mandates that all broad spectrum sunscreens are labeled, and will help protect your skin against both kinds of rays.

• Apply generously. Though rubbing in sunscreen can seem tedious, using adequate amounts of sunscreen is important. Keep rubbing the sunscreen into your skin until it is no longer white.

• Put on 30 minutes prior to heading out. Allow the sunscreen to get into your skin and protect you.

• Reapply every 2-4 hours. If you are sweating a lot or are in contact with water, you may need to reapply more frequently.

• Do it daily -- not just on weekends. Even though you may not think you are out in the sun all that much, you’re probably getting outside more than you realize, even when you are at work. Be proactive and get in the habit of putting on lotions with sunscreen each day all year long.

 
 

Changes to Zoning Complaint System


by John Wolforth, Planning & Zoning Division Director
comments open from May 25 until June 13


Until recently citizens have had the option to remain anonymous when submitting a Zoning Complaint. This is the standard operating procedure for much of the country including most of the municipalities in Jefferson County.

Due to concerns that there could be potential misuse of the anonymous system, Jefferson County Planning and Zoning will now require contact information on zoning complaints. The contact information will be kept confidential and not made part of the public record. Staff will use it to track complaints and also to better communicate with complainants and find the location of the potential zoning violation. Occasionally, when a complaint comes in, it doesn't include all the necessary information for investigation, and there is no way to contact the complainant for further details.

The new system is expected to be implemented on June 1 and will run for about a year to allow enough time to see if the new requirement is helpful and whether there is any change in activity. A comparison and evaluation of the time periods of June to June in 2010 and 2011 will then be completed to determine the effect of the new system and decide whether or not to continue requiring contact information or return to an anonymous complaint system.

Zoning violations occur when a property owner does not follow the zoning regulations that govern a piece of property. For a typical residential property, zoning violations are things like unlicensed vehicles, a too tall fence or loose trash and debris on property. Last year there were approximately 1,800 complaints and about 1,300 resulted in violations.

For more information on the Planning and Zoning Division or to file a zoning complaint online, visit www.jeffco.us/planning.

 
 

Jefferson County Public Library’s Online Library to Be Unavailable May 23


by Public Information
comments open from May 20 until June 8


Jefferson County Public Library is upgrading and consolidating its computer and web servers, and as a result, the Library’s website, online catalog, patron account information and electronic databases will be temporarily unavailable on Monday, May 23, 2011. The server consolidation project is designed to improve library operations while reducing operating costs.

“We apologize in advance for taking the Online Library down for a day,” said Marcellus Turner, executive director, JCPL. “However, given our budget challenges, we’re doing everything we can to become as efficient as possible. By consolidating library servers and creating a virtual server environment, we can increase productivity and efficiency, reduce server maintenance requirements and lower overhead costs.”

As a final step to the server consolidation project, the Library plans to migrate its Online Library to a new server on Monday, May 23. As a result, the JCPL website, online catalog, online resources and patron account information will be temporarily unavailable.

“When fully implemented, this project should pay for itself in less than two years and deliver annual savings of about $25,000,” Turner added. “We hope our patrons will understand and appreciate the benefits of this upgrade.”

The Library expects access to the website, Online Library and other electronic resources to be fully operational by Tuesday, May 24.

 
 

Big Dig Yields Pay Dirt for Boettcher Garden


by Cynthia Shaw McLaughlin, Boettcher Mansion Director
comments open from May 11 until May 30


In early Spring, we began installation of a new septic system in the meadow between the Boettcher Mansion and the Nature Center (replacing the old, failed one put in more than 25 years ago). While this project was the butt of endless jokes, the work itself was a site to behold, and in the end, a great example of collective collaboration and adaptive re-use.

As the excavator (Dave Ramstetter and his 24-year-old daughter, Alyssa) dug the trenches for the new tanks and leach fields, they unearthed many large boulders from beneath the ground. Ever resourceful, we quickly envisioned some of these beautiful specimens in our new front garden. After our Garden Designer, Robert Chavoustie (a graduate of CSU-Extension’s Master Gardening Program) hand-picked each one, they were carefully transported and positioned in their new setting.

With our busy social season starting in early June, completion of the garden is a top priority. We are fortunate to have the assistance of many county employees (especially Tim Kjensrud and Brian Hardman from Open Space; Seth Piper and Randy Meier from Facilities; Marcia Sieben from Purchasing; Tim Sandsmark from the Lookout Mountain Nature Center; and Assistant County Attorney, Steve Snyder). Thanks to all of you – and many others - our garden rocks!


 
 

Sneaking in Those Five Cups of Fruits and Veggies a Day


by Lise Melbye, Human Resources Wellness Coordinator
comments open from May 3 until May 22


When you hear the suggestion of eating at least five cups of fruits and vegetables each day, it may seem almost like an impossible task. You might be surprised to find out it can be easier than you think. The key is to try and bring in a cup of fruit or veggies each time you eat during the day, resulting in those 5 cups by the time you head to bed.

Try these quick and easy tips to add more fruits and vegetables to your menu:
• Top your cereal with strawberries, bananas or blueberries to start your day off with a cup of fruit.
• Make a fruit smoothie with a cup of frozen berries and lowfat plain or vanilla yogurt.
• Add fresh salsa to your morning eggs.
• 100% fruit juices are an excellent mid-morning snack for when you are on the go or at a desk. And yes, those 100% juices do count!
• Stash packages of dried fruits like raisins, craisins, apples or bananas in your desk for a quick and convenient snack.
• Chop up mushrooms and zucchini and toss into favorite jar of spaghetti sauce.
• Check out the produce section at your nearby grocery store. It’s filled with washed, cut, and ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables. No preparation needed – how easy is that?
• Keep a supply of frozen vegetables in the freezer. It’s quick and easy to add a vegetable side dish to any meal by simply steaming these tasty treats in the microwave. The extra bonus is that they are just as healthy and nutrient packed as the fresh options!
• Cut your produce up on Sunday and put into snack size baggies. Just grab and go for the week!

 
 

Open Space Starts Outdoor Insights Newsletters


by Thea Rock, Open Space/Community Resources Manager of Public Information
comments open from April 14 until May 3


A moment's insight is sometimes worth a life's experience.” - Oliver Wendell Holmes 1809-1894

Communications is a vital part of doing good business. Jefferson County Open Space is launching a new communications tool dubbed Outdoor Insights that provides any member of the community with the "full story" about a project or activity that might be happening in their favorite Open Space Park or in their own back yard.

The first two editions of Outdoor Insights featuring the Van Bibber Trail Corridor and South Table Mountain Park show the range of information that will be provided. You can find these on the specific park web pages or the Outdoor Insights Library web page.
>> Learn about the broad planning perspective for the Van Bibber Trail Corridor, an extension from Van Bibber Park to the Fairmount Trail.
>> And the South Table Mountain Park's specific plans for building a trailhead and parking lot at Quaker Street as a regional Park amenity.

Over the course of time, new editions will be included in the Outdoor Insights Library and the specific park webpages on the Open Space website.

Outdoor Insights provides information on Jefferson County Open Space projects, programs and activities. For more information, contact Thea Rock, Manager of Public Information: trock@jeffco.us or 303-271-5902

 
 

Jeffco Assessor Property Valuations Lower


by Jim Everson, Jefferson County Assessor
comments open from April 11 until April 30


Jim Everson, Jefferson County Assessor, released the results of the 2011 revaluation of all real property in Jefferson County. Notices of Valuation for 2011 will be sent to property owners on May 1, 2011. The values in the 2011 notice will reflect the value of property as of June 30, 2010 as required by State law. The last revaluation of the county was done in 2009.

"Countywide, the median value of an existing single family home decreased from $249,600 in 2009 to $247,000 in 2011. The median percentage value decrease for single family homes in the county was -2.1%. However, there was a lot of variability between neighborhoods which ranged from a +5.4% median increase to a -14.9% median decrease. Areas showing median decreases were Conifer (-7.0%), Evergreen (-6.6%), South Jeffco (-2.9%), Lakewood (-2.7%) and Golden (-1.7%). Areas showing increases were Wheat Ridge (+0.3%) and Edgewater (+1.7%). Mountain communities were hit the hardest," said Everson. "Of course, individual properties can and will vary from these averages. On the business side, actual value decreases were about -3.5% with the largest decreases coming in the office, retail and manufacturing and slight increases in commercial condos and warehouses. Apartments and other multi-family values stayed about the same."

"Because of the difference in assessment rates, 7.96% for residential and 29% for non-residential, and including new construction, the assessed value of real property decreased by 3.2% over year-end 2010. We expect to see some additional decrease in total assessed value for real property during appeals."

If the average mill levy remains fairly constant at about 100 mills, residential property owners, on average, will pay about $8.00 in taxes for every $1,000 of the "Current Year Actual Value" shown on their Notice of Valuation. Non-residential will average $29 per $1,000. This will vary based on the specific mill levy for the tax district where the property is located. Total mill levies for tax districts in the county range from 74.890 mills to 197.267 mills. Thus, a residence with a $300,000 actual value could be subject to property taxes ranging from $1,788 to $4,711 depending on the tax district in which it is located.

"If owners disagree with the values in the May 1 notice, they need to appeal with my office on or before June 1," stated Everson. "As always, I will make myself available to speak to interested groups to discuss details of the assessment calendar, valuation process and the appeals procedure."

 
 

What is the Health Threat from Wildfire Smoke?


by Nancy Braden, Jefferson County Public Health
comments open from March 24 until April 12


The recent wildfires within Jefferson County, Colorado, have raised concerns about air quality and health effects from smoke. Smoke from wildfires is usually a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant materials. Smoke can cause: coughing, a scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, shortness of breath, chest pain, headaches, stinging eyes, runny nose, asthma exacerbations. If you have heart or lung disease, it might make your symptoms worse. For more detail on these types of symptoms, see the JCPH fact sheet.

Jefferson County Public Health reminds everyone that smoke-related health problems primarily depend on the level of exposure, individual age and physical susceptibility. Healthy individuals will normally recover quickly from smoke exposure and may not suffer long-term consequences. However, certain sensitive populations may experience more severe acute and chronic symptoms from smoke exposure.

The current areas of most concern are whether or not people should stay indoors, and whether physical activities outdoors should be limited. The wildfire smoke situation for most areas within Jefferson County as of March 23 at 4:25 p.m., does not warrant limiting being outdoors or limiting outdoor physical activities for the general public. For those at high risk of health complications from exposure to smoke such as those with heart or lung disease, COPD, emphysema or asthma, and for children, the recommendation is to limit outdoor activities if smoke obscures visibility to between 3-5 miles. Thus far, this is not the case in most of Jefferson County.

Most areas immediately impacted by a wildfire will not have a real time Air Quality Index measurement. As a surrogate measure, visibility measures are used to determine levels of health concern, recommended actions to be taken to protect the health of the public, sensitive groups and individuals at risk. You can view that chart that gives the details of the Air Quality Measurement in the latest JCPH release.

JCPH will update its recommendations if/when the situation changes on our website. See our home page for all the latest information.

 
 
 
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