HONOLULU -- Health experts are urging people to use facemasks this New Year's Eve to protect themselves from fireworks' smoke.

Light trade winds are expected this Saturday and that means all that smoke may linger.

Doctors at Straub Clinic and Hospital are urging people with respiratory problems -- or any symptoms -- to use the masks while outside.

"It can be anything from irritated eyes, nose burning, throat irritation and of course more severely would be difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughing, chest congestion," Dr. Jeffrey Kam said.

Kam suggests staying in an air-conditioned environment such as shopping malls or movie theaters on this New Year's Eve. He also said people should drink plenty of fluids and be sure medication is current and available.

Kam and other health professionals from Straub will be available to answer questions at Ala Moana's Center's Center Stage on Thursday from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. They will also distribute about 1,300 free masks.