Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
Be ready to protect yourself against smoke and ash before, during, and after a wildfire.
Wildfire Smoke and COVID-19
Public Health Strategies to Reduce Exposure to Wildfire Smoke during the COVID-19 Pandemic
COVID-19 and Wildfire Smoke Cleaner Air Shelters & Spaces
COVID-19 and Wildfire Smoke Resources for Environmental Health Professionals
When wildfires burn near you, smoke can reach your community. Wildfire smoke is a mix of gases and fine particles from burning trees and plants, buildings, and other material. Wildfire smoke can make anyone sick, but people with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or heart disease, and children, pregnant women, and responders are especially at risk.
Breathing in smoke can affect you right away, causing:
- Coughing
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Asthma attacks
- Stinging eyes
- Scratchy throat
- Runny nose
- Irritated sinuses
- Headaches
- Tiredness
- Chest pain
- Fast heartbeat
Be ready to protect yourself against smoke and ash before, during, and after a wildfire.
![[Cover] Wildfire Smoke A Guide for Public Health Officials Revised 2019](/air/images/wildfire-smoke-cover-300px.jpg?_=60102)
Page last reviewed: July 11, 2022
Content source: National Center for Environmental Health