Risk of wildfires is increasing, prepare now for smoky days

Hotter and drier weather in the Pacific Northwest increases the risk of wildfires 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.

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

click here to download our wildfire smoke fact sheet

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. 

Prepare for wildfire smoke season

Consider purchasing an air purifier for your home or work, or make a box fan filter.
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.

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:

Image via Washington State Department of Ecology

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 gives recommendations based on current air quality and risk level.

Washington Smoke Blog features an air quality map, updates on wildfire activity, and links to resources.

Airnow.gov is a national resource offering air quality monitoring and forecasts.

Download the AirQuality WA app to get updates on your phone or tablet.

pscleanair.gov

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 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 symptoms related to smoke.
- 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.

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 or call 2-1-1.  

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 regarding masks and smoke.

Resources

Wildfire Smoke | Kitsap Public Health
Wildfire Smoke | CDC
Smoke From Fires | Washington Dept. of Health
Wildfire Smoke | Washington Dept. of Ecology
Wildfire Smoke | Puget Sound Clean Air Agency

Tad Sooter | Public Information Officer
Kitsap Public Health District
360-728-2330 - office | 360-728-2235 - main
[email protected] | kitsappublichealth.org

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