Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke

forest fire with 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

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.