Californians warned of smoke threat as 1,000 fires burn

0 Comments | AFP, June, 2008

SAN FRANCISCO, June 26, 2008 (AFP) — Californians were warned to protect themselves against choking smoke on Thursday as more than 1,000 wildfires blazed across the northern half of the state.

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said residents in affected areas needed to keep windows and doors closed, urging people suffering from asthma and respiratory illness to take special care.

"The whole state of California is filled with smoke, it's filled with smoke everywhere," Schwarzenegger told a press briefing in Butte County.

"People have to be very cautious, because smoke is very damaging to your lungs and to your health ... those that have asthma and respiratory and heart conditions, I think they should really be aware of that. Keep your windows closed, keep your...