SAN DIEGO -- The acrid air lingering over San Diego from the fires could pose a health risk for children, especially those with respiratory problems, officials with Rady Children's Hospital cautioned Tuesday.

To keep kids safe from the smoke, hospital officials encouraged residents to keep their children indoors, use air conditioning if it's available and to avoid any strenuous exercise.

"Cancel the workouts and soccer practices and stuff like that," said Dr. Buzz Kaufman with Children's Hospital.

Kaufman said children with respiratory problems are most at risk, but all kids could suffer from the poor air quality.

"Children with chronic diseases of course are more at risk," he said.

If children show symptoms from the smoke including, coughing, choking or shortness of breath, parents should contact their primary care doctor or pediatrician, Kaufman said.

San Diego residents being forced to evacuate their homes should also remember to bring all necessary medications, hospital officials said.