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Dust Storms:

What you need to know to protect yourself

PRD 12-3767-A
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What is a dust storm??
A dust storm is a strong wind capable of carrying millions of dust particles over
distances of several hundred kilometers resulting in visibility reduction to less than
one kilometer. Dust storms are considered natural hazards that affect daily life for
short time intervals, ranging from a few hours to a few days. In Saudi Aarbia, dust
storms pose some of the most severe environmental and health problems.

What are the problems associated with dust storms?


Data indicates that dust is composed of tiny solid particles, composed of many
minerals, chemicals, bacteria and viruses. These tiny particles can get past the
bodys natural defenses and build up. This results in many health and environmental
problems, such as:

Irritation to sensitive lung tissue that may trigger asthma attacks and
aggravate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Chronic breathing and lung problems, with breathing a lot of


dust over a long period of time.

Allergies start to flare up leading to coughing, wheezing and


runny nose.

Increase sickness due to infections.

Reduction of visibility leading to an increase in the number of


traffic accidents.

Skin irritation.

Reduce soil fertility and damage to crops.

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Impairment of the efficiency of solar devices, and damage to
telecommunication and mechanical systems.

Who should take special precautions?


Any healthy individual can potentially be harmed by breathing too much dust.
The following groups are at the highest risk:

Infants, children and teens.

Elderly.

People with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, COPD or other respiratory


conditions.

People with heart disease.

Pregnant women.

Immunocompromised patients

Healthy adults working or exercising vigorously outdoors (for example,


agricultural workers, construction workers and runners).

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What can I do to protect myself and others?
Heed dust storms warnings.

Avoid going outside during severe dust storms. If you must go out, spend
as little time outside as possible.

Wearing some type of covering (mask or damp cloth), over your nose and
mouth, as protection from breathing in the dust.

If you are driving during a dust storm, go slowly. Pull over to the side of the
road if visibility drops. Dust storms cause road accidents. Roll up windows
and turn off vents that bring outside air in.

Protect your eyes. Eyeglasses offer minimal protection from blowing dust or
sand, but airtight goggles are better. If possible, avoid wearing contact
lenses in areas prone to dust storms.

If you have asthma, allergies or other respiratory conditions, contact your


doctor when you start having symptoms. Your doctor might increase
the dose of your current medication or prescribe a new medication.

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Afan Printing Press: (03) 8561510

HE - 2012 - 035 L 0285 B


8 2012

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