Understanding Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke is a complex mixture of gases and fine particles from burning vegetation and materials. It can travel hundreds of miles from the fire source, affecting air quality far from the actual fire.
Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke contains high levels of PM2.5, making it particularly dangerous:
- Burning eyes, runny nose, coughing
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing
- Chest pain and rapid heartbeat
- Fatigue and headaches
- Exacerbation of asthma and COPD
- Increased risk of heart attacks
Before Wildfire Season
- Stock up on N95 masks for your family
- Purchase HEPA air purifiers for main living areas
- Keep at least a week's supply of medications
- Know evacuation routes
- Create an emergency kit
During Smoke Events
Indoor Protection
- Stay indoors with windows and doors closed
- Run HEPA air purifiers continuously
- Set air conditioning to recirculate mode
- Avoid activities that create indoor pollution (smoking, frying, burning candles)
- Create a clean room for sleeping
Outdoor Activities
- Check AQI before going outside
- Limit outdoor activities when AQI is above 100
- Avoid outdoor exercise entirely when AQI is above 150
- Wear N95 masks if you must be outside
- Keep children, elderly, and pets indoors
When to Seek Medical Help
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Persistent chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Inability to control asthma symptoms
- Confusion or altered mental state
After the Smoke Clears
- Continue monitoring AQI for several days
- Replace HVAC and air purifier filters
- Gradually resume normal outdoor activities
- Watch for delayed health effects