Key points
- Wildfire smoke can reach far away from where fires burn.
- Wildfire smoke can make anyone sick, but some people have a higher risk of getting sick.
- Be ready to protect yourself against smoke and ash before, during, and after a wildfire.
Health effects of wildfire smoke
Wildfire smoke is a mix of gases and fine particles from burning trees and plants, buildings, and other material.
Wildfire smoke can make you sick.
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
People at increased risk
Wildfire smoke can make anyone sick, but some people have a higher risk of getting sick. People most at-risk include:
- People with chronic conditions like asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or heart disease
- Those who are pregnant
- Children
- Responders
Protect yourself from wildfire smoke
Take steps to be ready for a wildfire.
Learn how to protect yourself and your family from a wildfire, including how to protect yourself against smoke and ash, evacuate safely during a wildfire, and how to stay healthy when you return home.
Learn more:
Take steps to prepare for wildfires.
Protect yourself from wildfires and wildfire smoke.
Take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones when returning to your home after a fire.
Content Source
National Center for Environmental Health
About This Page
Published: May 15, 2024
Updated: August 24, 2026
This page was last updated on this date. Updates may include minor edits, image changes, or other modifications to page content.
Reviewed: August 24, 2026
The information on this page was last reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy.