MULTIMEDIA RELEASE: CARB offers guidance on protecting yourself from exposure to smoke from wildfires

Californians encouraged to check the air quality index, protect themselves from smoke exposure

SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board is urging Californians to be aware of the impacts of wildfire smoke on health as many communities across the state continue to suffer from poor air quality.

People impacted by wildfire smoke should protect themselves – especially children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with heart or respiratory conditions. These sensitive groups are advised to limit outdoor activities, especially when the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.’ Air quality has been reaching ‘Unhealthy,’ ‘Very Unhealthy’ and even ‘Hazardous’ levels in some places over the past week. Even healthy people may experience symptoms in smoky conditions or after exposure. Pets also can be affected by unhealthy air and should be brought indoors, if possible.

Protecting Yourself from Wildfire Smoke

Check air quality reports

For near real-time updates on air quality near you, visit AirNow or the U.S. Forest Service Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program
For mobile devices, access AQI information for more than 150 California locations using the state’s BreatheWell

Air Quality Guide for Particle Pollution

Additional Recommendations

Stay indoors and keep indoor air clean

The most effective way to reduce exposure and avoid the ill effects of smoke is to stay indoors with windows and doors closed
If you have a central ducted air conditioning and heating system, run the system while keeping the fresh-air intake closed to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside, and if possible install a high efficiency filter with a MERV rating as high as the manufacturer of the system recommends
Consider using a CARB certified air cleaner which can greatly reduce indoor particle levels to further reduce impacts from smoke
Do not run swamp coolers or whole house fans
Avoid activities that increase indoor pollution, such as burning candles, using gas stoves and vacuuming

Avoid outdoor activities

People should avoid exercising outdoors during smoky conditions. Exposure and the resulting health effects depend on the amount of time spent outside, level of exertion, and the level of air pollution
Consider eliminating outdoor activities altogether when the AQI is in the unhealthy level
Officials may call for an evacuation in emergency situations or when the AQI reaches the hazardous level
In the event of evacuation, make sure to operate your vehicle with the windows rolled up and the air conditioner set to recirculate

Use a respirator mask labeled N95 or P100

When worn properly, masks provide protection, however they should only be used if you must be outdoors; wearing a mask should not encourage too much physical activity or time spent outdoors

Healthy individuals may wish to wear a protective ‘particulate respirator’, which, when fitted properly, is very effective at removing small airborne particles produced from fires
Follow the mask manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure the mask will be effective in reducing your exposure
Check with your doctor before using a mask if you have heart or lung disease, or have trouble breathing. It is harder to breathe when wearing these masks. Take frequent rests if you must work
Seal the mask closely to your face. Masks with a snug seal work best
Avoid bandanas, dust masks and surgical masks. Do not use bandanas (wet or dry), paper masks or tissues over your mouth or nose since these will not protect your lungs from wildfire smoke

Wildfire Smoke and Health

Wildfires produce a range of harmful air pollutants, from known cancer-causing substances to tiny particles that can aggravate existing health problems and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Particulate matter (PM) is the principal pollutant of concern from wildfire smoke for the relatively short-term exposures (hours to weeks) typically experienced by the public. Particles from smoke tend to be very small (with diameters of 2.5 micrometers and smaller), and can be inhaled into the deepest recesses of the lung.

Larger and more frequent and intense wildfires are a growing public health problem, contributing to reduced air quality for people living near or downwind of fire. Health problems related to wildfire smoke exposure can be as mild as eye and respiratory tract irritation and as serious as worsening of heart and lung disease, including asthma, and even premature death.

Media

Interviews with CARB experts on the following topics are available for attribution, use and download by press and media.

To request a downloadable file contact CARB's Office of Communications at (916) 322-2990 or pio@arb.ca.gov.

CARB Infographics (English, Spanish)

Air Quality Index
Wildfire Smoke's Biggest Health Concern
The Right Respirator and Proper Fit Can Reduce Your Exposure to Wildfire Smoke
Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
Be Ready for Wildfires

Additional Information

CARB is the lead agency in California for cleaning up the air and fighting climate change to attain and maintain health-based air quality standards. Its mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through the effective reduction of air and climate pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy.