Tips to prepare for wildfire smoke

OLYMPIA – Washington state is getting ready for what is likely to be a hotter and drier summer than normal. These conditions can lead to more wildfires, exposing millions of residents to wildfire smoke and worsening people’s health.

To help protect people from wildfire smoke, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) joined a coalition of local and regional agencies and departments for this year’s Smoke Ready Week. From June 10-14, DOH is sharing information and resources to help people prepare for smoke plumes and poor air quality caused by wildfires.

Smoke from fires can lead to dangerous air quality levels, especially for people with chronic health conditions like asthma or COPD, as well as infants, the elderly, low-income or marginalized communities. Exposure to fine particulate matter from wildlife smoke can irritate eyes, nose, and throat, and lead to fatigue, headaches, wheezing, and other symptoms.

Check our DOH website, Facebook, Instagram, and X social media feeds this week for information and links to useful sites related to Smoke Ready Week.