Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
alert iconThe National Interagency Fire Centerexternal icon is anticipating a potentially higher than normal risk of wildfire this spring in the southern and southwest regions of the U.S.
Exposure to air pollutants in wildfire smoke can irritate the lungs, cause inflammation, alter immune function, and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections, likely including COVID-19.
Be ready to protect yourself against smoke and ash before, during, and after a wildfire.
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 childrenexternal icon, 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)