Some residents across Fulton County have observed haze or smoke in the air today. The Atlanta Fulton County Emergency Management Agency has been in communication with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division and the Georgia Emergency Management agency, as well as our municipal and public health partners about these conditions. Several public safety agencies across Fulton County have conducted air quality testing.

We are sharing the information below from the Georgia Department of Public Health:

A chemical fire at the BioLab facility in Conyers is sending heavy smoke into the air. The wind is now pushing that smoke into areas beyond the immediate area of the fire. At this time, no significant toxicity has been identified in the smoke.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat, irritated sinuses, headaches, stinging eyes, or a runny nose. People with heart disease might experience chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, or fatigue. People with lung disease may not be able to breathe as deeply or as vigorously as usual, and they may experience symptoms such as coughing, phlegm, chest discomfort, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

It’s important to limit your exposure to smoke and take precautions to protect your health.

• Stay inside and away from the smoke.
• Keep indoor air as clean as possible. Keep windows and doors closed. Do not run your air conditioner.
• Follow the advice of your doctor or other health care provider about medicines and your respiratory management plan if you have asthma or another lung disease.
• Seek medical attention if you are having difficulty breathing or symptoms worsen.

Fulton County will continue to monitor conditions and provide additional updates as needed.