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Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke

Wednesday, October 15, 2014 - The dry conditions created by the long hot summer in the Northwest have increased the potential for wildfires in or near wilderness areas. Stay alert for wildfire warnings and take action to protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke.

When wildfires burn in your area, they produce smoke that may reach your community. Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and other plant materials. Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases.

Who is at the greatest risk from wildfire smoke?

  • People who have heart or lung disease.

  • Older adults are more likely to be affected by smoke.

  • Children are more likely to be affected by health threats from smoke.
Learn more about how to protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke by visiting Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.