NEW ORLEANS — On Monday, additional resources were sent to the fire in New Orleans East.
As requested by the Governor, the US Army Corps of Engineers is loaning five pumps to the New Orleans Fire Department.
Department veterans, recruits, and SWBNO worked to install the Monday. A boom was used to run the hose lines from nearby canals to the charred area. By Monday afternoon, water was flowing.
New Orleans East resident and former State Representative Austin Badon, said they could always use more help.
"Dose this area as much as possible, but it’s a big area, and I want people to know that we’re going to have to deal with this for a while until we get some help from Mother Nature," Badon said.
The Louisiana Dept. of Agriculture and Forestry is also supplying equipment to dig trenches to keep water flowing in the right direction.
“So there is a concerted effort right now to address this. Unfortunately, as we speak, the wind is blowing towards St. Bernard Parish. If you’re downwind from it. You’re going to have a problem," Badon said.
Hot spots linger across more than 200 acres pushing more smoke into the atmosphere.
St. Bernard Asst. Fire Chief Charles Licciardi, said it's tough to keep the smoke out of your home, but he did share some tips.
Licciardi recommended not to open doors and windows, make sure your AC filters are clean, close air intakes on window units, and close chimney flues.
Licciardi also said you shouldn't vacuum or clean because it will stir the particles around.
“If you’re stuck in your house, take it easy. Close everything up. Let the air conditioner run. Watch some Netflix, and just relax until we get past all of this," Licciardi said.
The St. Bernard Fire Department also reminded those with pre-existing conditions or respiratory issues to consider masking up until the smoke moves out. Licciardi recommended N-95, or medical grade, masks.
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