Siskiyou County Emergency Preparedness Guide - Air Quality - Preparing for Smoke

Wildfires spread rapidly and can quickly change air quality; be ready to endure the smoke conditions.

Air Quality Information

• Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program’s Air Quality Index (AQI)
• EPA AirNow

Who is most at risk?
Although the general public is not likely to be affected, people with heart and lung disease, older adults and children are at a greater risk from exposure to smoke.

How to protect yourself?
Reduce your exposure to the smoke: close windows and doors, follow recommended AQI guidelines for outdoor activities, and run an air conditioner or air cleaner with HEPA or MERV 13 or higher rated filter.
N95 respirators are designed to protect against smoke particulates, however they are not effective against the smell of smoke. Follow the advice of your doctor or healthcare provider. Call if symptoms worsen. Consider leaving the area if you are sensitive and smoke is an ongoing problem.

Common symptoms
Smoke inhalation can make respiratory disease symptoms worsen and trigger asthma attacks.
Healthy people can even experience coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. Contact a healthcare provider for further advice or call 911 in an emergency.