Air Quality Resources for Wildfire Smoke

Wildfires from neighboring states and provinces can impact our air quality when smoke drifts

into our area. Resource guides, factsheets, and graphics are included below with information

on how to protect yourself and loved ones during episodes of wildfire smoke.

Fine particles are respiratory irritants, and exposures to high concentrations can cause persistent cough, phlegm, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Exposures to fine particles can also affect healthy people, causing respiratory symptoms, transient reductions in lung function, and pulmonary inflammation.

Particulate matter may also affect the body’s ability to remove inhaled foreign materials, such as pollen and bacteria, from the lungs.

Short-term exposure (i.e., days to weeks) to fine particles, a major component of smoke, are associated with increased risk of premature mortality and aggravation of pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease.

Wildfire Smoke Guide, A Guide for Public Health Officials, revised 2019