Now is the time to prepare for smoky days ahead
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public health news Manette Bridge on a smokey day
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July 10, 2025
*Información en español [ [link removed] ]*
Risk of wildfires is increasing, prepare now for smoky days
Hotter and drier weather in the Pacific Northwest increases the risk of wildfires [ [link removed] ] in Washington. More wildfires mean more smoke could drift into our region, causing health issues for people of all ages.
*Now is the time to prepare your home and workplace for smoky days ahead.* Some supplies, such as fans, filters, and air conditioners, could be more difficult to find as summer progresses.
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Smoke from fires is unhealthy for everyone
Smoke contains tiny particles and gases that can enter your lungs and bloodstream and cause a range of health problems.
*Some groups of people are at higher risk for serious health problems from smoke, including:*
* Babies and children
* Older adults (65 and older)
* People who are pregnant
* People with health conditions, such as heart or breathing problems
* People who are unhoused
* People who work or exercise outdoors
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click here to download our wildfire smoke fact sheet [ [link removed] ]
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What health problems can smoke cause?
*Exposure to smoke from wildfires can cause health problems or worsen existing conditions. *These impacts can range from minor to severe. Symptoms include:
* Eye, nose, and throat irritation
* Fatigue
* Headaches and coughing
* Wheezing and shortness of breath
* Stress and mental health concerns
*Seek medical attention if you are experiencing severe symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing. *
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Prepare for wildfire smoke season
* *Consider purchasing an air purifier *for your home or work, or make a box fan filter [ [link removed] ].
* *Plan indoor activities *for smoky days.
* *Talk to your healthcare provider* if someone in your household is at higher risk from smoke. If you have a breathing condition such as asthma, make sure you have an inhaler and any medications you might need.
*Find more preparedness tips on our website [ [link removed] ].*
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box fan filter [ [link removed] ]
Making a box fan filter
You can make a filter to clean air in your home by attaching a furnace filter to the back of a box fan using tape or a bungee cord. *Be sure to only run the fan when you are home and to change out the filter when it gets dirty.* Learn more:
* Video tutorial [ [link removed] ]
* More information [ [link removed] ]
"Image via Washington State Department of Ecology"
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How to check air quality and forecasts
*It is important to stay informed of current air quality **and air quality **forecasts so you can take steps to protect your health.* Several agencies report air quality conditions and forecasts for our area. Here are some useful resources:
* *Puget Sound Clean Air Agency* [ [link removed] ] gives recommendations based on current air quality and risk level.
* *Washington Smoke Blog* [ [link removed] ] features an air quality map, updates on wildfire activity, and links to resources.
* *Airnow.gov* [ [link removed] ]* *is a national resource offering air quality monitoring and forecasts.
* Download the *AirQuality WA* [ [link removed] ] app to get updates on your phone or tablet.
pscaa website [ [link removed] ]
pscleanair.gov
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Steps to take on smoky days
*Health risks from wildfire smoke vary depending on how much smoke is in the air and your personal risk factors.*
In general, you can protect your health by:
* *Staying indoors *as much as possible.
* *Avoiding vigorous outdoor activities,* such as running or biking.
* *Creating a **clean room* [ [link removed] ]* in your home* – such as a living room or bedroom – where you can keep air cooler and cleaner when air quality outside is unhealthy.
* *Keeping air in your home as clean as possible.*
* Close windows and doors unless it is too hot to maintain safe temperatures.
* Seal gaps around doors and windows that could allow smoke to enter your home.
* If you have a heating/ air conditioning (HVAC) system, install a MERV 13 or higher filter. If you do not have HVAC, use a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter.
* Use fans or an air conditioner to cool your home. Set AC to recirculate.
* *Avoid activities that can make indoor air quality worse,* such as smoking, vacuuming, burning candles, or frying foods.
* *If you do not have a safe place to stay inside, go to a public indoor space.*
* *Check in with family and friends* during smoky days. Consider gathering at the home of someone with air conditioning.
* *Contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned about **sympto**ms related to smoke* [ [link removed] ]*.*
* Seek medical care immediately if you experience severe symptoms.
* You can also call the Washington Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 with any questions or concerns about wildfire smoke and your health.
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*Cleaner air and/or cooling stations may be open in Kitsap County* when unhealthy air quality or extreme heat is expected. To sign up for notifications, go to kitsapdem.com [ [link removed] ] or call *2-1-1.*
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air quality explained [ [link removed] ]
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mask
What to know about masks and smoke
* *Staying indoors is the best way to protect your health* from smoke.
* If you have to be outside, consider wearing a *high-quality respirator such as an N95 or KN95. *
* *Make sure the mask fits snugly* over your mouth and nose. A loose-fitting mask will not filter particles from smoke.
* *Talk to your healthcare provider* if you are unsure if you can safely wear a mask due to health conditions.
* *Find detailed recommendations* [ [link removed] ] regarding masks and smoke.
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Resources
* Wildfire Smoke [ [link removed] ] | Kitsap Public Health
* Wildfire Smoke [ [link removed] ] | CDC
* Smoke From Fires [ [link removed] ] | Washington Dept. of Health
* Wildfire Smoke [ [link removed] ] | Washington Dept. of Ecology
* Wildfire Smoke [ [link removed] ] | Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
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*Tad Sooter | Public Information Officer*
Kitsap Public Health District
360-728-2330 - office | 360-728-2235 - main
[email protected] | kitsappublichealth.org [ [link removed] ]
KPHD footer [ www.kitsappublichealth.org ]
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