Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke

Fireworks safety tips to minimize wildfire risk

Dry conditions in much of the United States increase the potential for wildfires in or near wilderness areas. Stay alert for wildfire smoke. This smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases.

Take steps to reduce your risk from wildfire smoke.

Be prepared for wildfires.

Take steps to reduce your risk from wildfire smoke.Check local air quality reports. Listen and watch for news or health warnings about smoke. Pay attention to public health messages about safety measures.

Consult local visibility guides.

Some communities have monitors that measure the amount of particles in the air. In the western United States, some states and communities have guidelines to help people determine if there are high levels of particulates in the air by how far they can see.

Keep indoor air as clean as possible if you are advised to stay indoors.

Keep windows and doors closed. Run an air conditioner, but keep the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside. If you do not have an air conditioner and it is too warm to stay inside with the windows closed, go to a designated shelter away from the affected area. Stay alert for wildfire warnings.

Yellow caution tape that reads "DANGER WILDFIRE"

Avoid activities that increase indoor pollution.

Burning candles, fireplaces, or gas stoves can increase indoor pollution. Vacuuming stirs up particles already inside your home, contributing to indoor pollution. Smoking also puts even more pollution into the air.

Prevent wildfires from starting.

Prepare, build, maintain, and extinguish campfires safely. Follow local regulations if you burn trash or debris. Check with your local fire department to be sure the weather is safe enough for burning.

Follow the advice of your doctor or other healthcare provider

about medicines and about your respiratory management plan if you have asthma or another lung disease. Consider evacuating if you are having trouble breathing. Call your doctor for advice if your symptoms worsen.