BAGUIO CITY, Feb. 22 -- The Department of Health-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) has advised residents in Baguio and nearby areas to take precautionary measures to limit exposure to the smoke from the ongoing forest fire at Mount Santo Tomas.

"With the typical increased occurrence of forest fires this dry season, especially with the El Nino we are currently experiencing, we may be at risk for smoke exposure," DOH-CAR regional director Dr. Amelita Pangilinan said in a message on Thursday.

Pangilinan urged the public to avoid outdoor activities, close doors and windows, and use face masks.

She also recommended people to "hydrate well with safe drinking water, protect your eyes from irritations and itchiness that may result fro...