June 16, 2023

With 'above normal' fire activity expected in Washington, now is the time to prepare for a smoky summer

Dry weather in the Pacific Northwest could set the stage for a long and intense summer wildfire season, according to the Washington State Department of Health.  

More wildfires create the potential for more smoke to drift into our region, increasing health risks for people of all ages. Already this spring, smoke from Canadian fires covered swaths of the eastern United States in an unhealthy haze. 

Now is a perfect time to prepare your home and workplace for smoky days ahead. Keep in mind that some supplies, such as fans, filters, and air conditioners, could be more difficult to find as summer arrives. Scroll down for more tips and resources or visit our Air Quality and Smoke Page.

WILDFIRE SMOKE FACT SHEETS AND POSTCARDS Download our wildfire smoke fact sheet in English and Spanish Download our smoke and extreme heat postcard Click here to view and download the fact sheet as a PDF. Email pio@kitsappublichealth.org to request additional formats.

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:

Take steps to prepare for wildfire smoke season

• Choose a space in your home — such as a living room or bedroom — where you can keep air cooler and cleaner when air quality outside is unhealthy. 
  
  
• Seal gaps around doors and windows that could allow smoke to enter your home. 
  
  
• Consider purchasing an air purifier for your home or work, or make a box fan filter (see the link to instructions below). 
  
  
• 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.
  
  
• Plan indoor activities for smoky days.
  
  
• Find more tips for preparedness tips from the CDC and state Department of Health. 

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 More information Image via Washington State Department of Ecology

How to check air quality and forecasts

pscleanair.gov

It is important to stay informed of current air quality conditions 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 website (pictured above) provides simple recommendations based on current air quality and risk level. 
  
  
• Washington Smoke Blog features and air quality map, updates on wildfire activity, and links to resources. 
  
  
• Airnow.gov is a national resource offering air quality monitoring and forecasts. 
  
  
• Want updates on your phone or tablet? Check out the AirQuality WA app for Android and iOS (Apple) devices. 

WHAT TO DO WHEN THE AIR IS SMOKY

• 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.
    
    
  • Keeping air in your home as clean as possible: 
    • Close windows and doors. 
    • Use an air cleaner with a HEPA filter if available.
    • 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 vacuuming or frying foods
• If you do not have a safe place to stay inside, go to a public indoor space. 
  
  
• Contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned about symptoms related to smoke. Seek medical care immediately if you experience severe symptoms. 
  
  
• Cleaner air/and or cooling stations may be open in Kitsap County when unhealthy air quality or extreme heat is expected. For information or 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.

Additional resources

• Kitsap Public Health District Air Quality & Smoke
• Washington State Department of Health | Smoke From Fires | Toolkit
• Washington State Department of Ecology | Wildfire Smoke Information
• Puget Sound Clean Air Agency | Wildfire Smoke
• CDC | Wildfire Smoke

CONTACT: pio@kitsappublichealth.org