USFA Discusses Minimizing The Effects Of Wildfire Smoke During COVID-19

Wildfire smoke occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic can increase susceptibility to the virus and other infections by irritating the respiratory system, resulting in altered immune function.

Populations vulnerable to smoking, including those with compromised immune systems, children under 18, pregnant women, adults 65 and over, and outdoor workers need to be aware of this risk.

How to reduce risk from wildfire smoke

Inform the community about these actionable steps that they can take to minimize the respiratory effects of wildfire smoke.

• Check the Air Quality index or Air Now Fire and Smoke Map to make informed decisions about daily activities.
• If air quality is compromised outside, seek cleaner air spaces inside.
• Use air conditioners, heat pumps, fans, and window shades to keep the air space comfortably cool on hot days. Try not to use equipment that circulates in the air from the outside.
• Limit outdoor exercise when it is smoky outside or choose lower-intensity activities to reduce smoke exposure.
• Use an N95 respirator for protection from wildfire smoke. (These respirators might be in short supply as front-line healthcare workers need them during the pandemic.)
• Ask healthcare providers to recommend protections against wildfire smoke. Stock up on medicine and essential supplies to minimize outdoor shopping trips. Use home delivery if possible.
• In the event of an evacuation, follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations for staying safe and healthy in a public disaster shelter during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Resources to help prepare for wildfire smoke events

The Environmental Protection Agency provides a Smoke Ready toolbox to help the community be better prepared for wildfire smoke. Additional tools available include:

• Air Quality Forecast Guidance: The smoke forecast tool from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
• InciWeb: Provides users with the location of wildfires in their area.
• Wildfire Smoke: A Guide for Public Health Officials. Helps users to prepare for smoke events, take measures to protect the public when smoke is present, and communicate with the public about wildfire smoke and health.

Prevent wildfires: actions that a community can take

Users must help to reduce the incidence of wildfire events and the smoke they emit. Teach the community how to prevent accidental ignitions and inform residents how to create safer communities by taking simple and often low-cost actions to reduce the potential for homes to ignite during a wildfire.