WILDFIRE SMOKE FACTSHEET

WILDFIRE SMOKE FACTSHEET

Prepare for Fire Season

If you live in an area where the wildfre risk is high, take steps now to prepare for fre season. Being

prepared for fre season is especially important for the health of children, older adults, and people with

heart or lung disease.

Before a Wildfre

•

If any family member has heart or lung

disease, including asthma, check with your

doctor about what you should do during smoke

events. Have a plan to manage your condition.

•

Stock up so you don’t have to go out when

it’s smoky. Have several days of medications

on hand. Buy groceries that do not need to be

refrigerated or cooked because cooking can add

to indoor air pollution.

•

Create a “clean room” in your home. Choose

a room with no freplace and as few windows

and doors as possible, such as a bedroom. Use a

portable air cleaner in the room.

•

Buy a portable air cleaner before there is a

smoke event. Make sure it has high efciency

HEPA flters and it is the right size for the room.

•

Know how you will get alerts and health

warnings, including air quality reports, public

service announcements (PSAs), and social media

warning you about high fre risk or an active fre.

•

Ask an air conditioning professional what kind

of high efciency flters to use in your home’s

system and how to close the fresh-air intake if

your central air system or room air conditioner

has one.

•

Have a supply of N95 respirators and learn

how to use them. They are sold at many home

improvement stores and online.

•

Organize your important items ahead of time,

including fnancial and personal documents.

Know your evacuation routes and where to go if

you have to evacuate. Make sure to prepare your

children, and consider your pets when making

an evacuation plan.

During a Wildfre

•

Follow instructions from local ofcials to keep

•

Reduce how much smoke you inhale. If it

yourself and your family safe.

looks or smells smoky outside, avoid strenuous

Stay inside with the doors and windows closed. Run

activities such as mowing the lawn or going for a

your air conditioner with the fresh-air intake closed

run. Wait until air quality is better before you are

(“recirculate mode”) to keep smoke from getting

active

indoors. Seek shelter elsewhere if you do not have an

outdoors.

air conditioner and it is too warm to stay inside with

•

•

•

Pay attention to local air quality reports and

the windows closed.

health warnings. Smoke levels can vary a lot

Follow your health care provider’s advice if

during the day, so you may have a chance to do

you have heart or lung disease, and follow your

errands and open up windows when air quality

management plan if you have one. If your symptoms

is better. Public service announcements give

worsen, reduce your exposure to smoke and contact

you important information such as changing

your provider.

conditions, cancelled events, or evacuation

notices.

•

Do not add to indoor air pollution. Do not burn

candles or use gas, propane, wood-burning stoves,

•

•

Do not rely on dust masks or bandanas for

freplaces, or aerosol sprays. Do not fry or broil meat,

protection from smoke. An N95 respirator can

smoke tobacco products, or vacuum. All of these can

protect you if it fts snugly to your face and is worn

increase air pollution indoors.

properly. These are not recommended for children.

Use a portable air cleaner to reduce indoor air

•

Reduce smoke in your vehicle by closing the

pollution. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions

windows and vents and running the air conditioner

on where to put the air cleaner and when to

in recirculate mode. Slow down when you drive in

replace the flters.

smoky conditions.

For more information:

•

Get air quality information: Check your local news, the airnow.gov website, or your state air quality agency’s

website.

•

Learn about home air cleaners: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/guide-air-cleaners-home

•

Find certifed air cleaning devices: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/aircleaners/certifed.htm

•

Learn how to use an N95 respirator mask: http://www.bepreparedcalifornia.ca.gov/Documents/Protect%20

Your%20Lungs%20Respirator.pdf

•

Learn more about wildfre smoke: How Smoke from Fires Can Afect Your Health: https://airnow.gov/index.

cfm?action=smoke.index

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · EPA- 452/F-18-001

WILDFIRE SMOKE FACTSHEET

Reduce Your Smoke Exposure

When wildfres create smoky conditions, there are things you can do, indoors and out, to reduce your

exposure to smoke. Reducing exposure is important for everyone’s health — especially children,

older adults, and people with heart or lung disease.

Reduce smoke exposure indoors

Stay inside with the doors and windows

closed. Whether you have a central air

conditioning system or a room unit, use high

efciency flters to capture fne particles

from smoke. Ask an air conditioning

professional what type of high efciency

flter your air conditioner can accept.

•

Create a “clean room” in your home. Choose

a room with no freplace and as few windows

and doors as possible, such as a bedroom.

Use a portable air cleaner in the room.

•

Have a supply of N95 respirators and learn

how to use them. They are sold at many

home improvement stores and online.

•

Seek shelter elsewhere if you do not have

an air conditioner and it is too warm to stay

inside with the windows closed.

•

•

Do not add to indoor air pollution. Do not

burn candles or use gas, propane, woodburning stoves, freplaces, or aerosol sprays.

Do not fry or broil meat, smoke tobacco

products, or vacuum. All of these can

increase air pollution indoors.

Long-term smoke events usually have

periods when the air is better. When air

quality improves, even temporarily, air out

your home to reduce indoor air pollution.

•

Use a portable air cleaner to reduce indoor

air pollution. Make sure it is sized for the

room and that it does not make ozone,

which is a harmful air pollutant. Portable air

cleaners can be used along with efcient

central air systems with efcient flters to

maximize the reduction of indoor particles.

•

Use a portable air cleaner to reduce

indoor air pollution

Reduce smoke exposure outdoors

•

Take it easier during smoky times to

reduce how much smoke you inhale. If

it looks or smells smoky outside, avoid

strenuous activities such as mowing the

lawn or going for a run.

•

Know your air quality. Smoke levels can

change a lot during the day, so wait until

air quality is better before you are active

outdoors. Check your state or local air

quality agency’s website or airnow.gov for

air quality forecasts and current air quality

conditions. On AirNow, you can also sign up

to get email notifcations, download an air

quality app, or check current fre conditions.

In addition, some communities have visual

range programs where you can assess smoke

conditions by how far you can see.

•

Have enough food and medication on

hand to last several days so you don’t have to

go out for supplies. If you must go out, avoid

the smokiest times of day.

•

Reduce smoke in your vehicle by closing

the windows and vents and running the air

conditioner in recirculate

mode. Slow down when

you drive in smoky

conditions.

•

Do not rely on dust masks or bandanas for

protection from smoke. If you must be out

in smoky conditions, an N95 respirator can

protect you, if it fts snugly to your face and is

worn properly.

•

Have a plan to evacuate. Know how you

will get alerts and health warnings, including

air quality reports and public service

announcements (PSAs). Public advisories

can provide important information such as

changing smoke conditions and evacuation

notices. Know your evacuation routes,

organize your important items ahead of

time, and know where to go in case you have

to evacuate.

Reduce your risk of health problems:

•

•

•

•

•

Have enough medication and food (enough for more than 5 days) on hand.

Follow your health care provider’s advice about what to do if you have heart or lung disease.

If you have asthma, follow your asthma management plan.

If you feel sick, reduce your exposure to smoke and contact your health care provider.

Pay attention to public service announcements, health advisories, and air quality advisories.

For more information:

•

•

Get air quality information: Check your local news, the airnow.gov website, or your state air quality agency’s website.

Learn about home air cleaners: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/guide-air-cleaners-home

•

•

Find certified air cleaning devices: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/aircleaners/certified.htm

Learn how to use an N95 respirator mask: http://www.bepreparedcalifornia.ca.gov/ResourcesAndLinks/Languages/

Documents/English/ENG_ProtectLungsSmoke7208color.pdf

•

•

Fires — Current Conditions: https://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=topics.smoke_wildfires

Learn more about wildfire smoke: Wildfire Smoke, A Guide for Public Health Officials:

https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/wildfire_may2016.pdf

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · EPA- 452/F-18-003

WILDFIRE SMOKE FACTSHEET

Protect Yourself from Ash

Protect yourself from harmful ash when you clean up after a wildfire. Cleanup work can expose you to

ash and other products of the fire that may irritate your eyes, nose, or skin and cause coughing and other

health effects. Ash inhaled deeply into lungs may cause asthma attacks and make it difficult to breathe.

Ash is made up of larger and tiny particles (dust, dirt, and soot). Ash deposited on surfaces both indoors

and outdoors can be inhaled if it becomes airborne when you clean up. Ash from burned structures is

generally more hazardous than forest ash.

Avoid direct contact with ash. If you get ash

on your skin, in your eyes, or in your mouth,

wash it off as soon as you can.

People with heart or lung disease, including

asthma, older adults, children, and pregnant

women should use special caution around

ash.

Children and pets: Children should not be

nearby while you clean up ash. Do not allow

children to play in ash. Clean ash off all

children’s toys before use. Clean ash off pets

and other animals. Keep pets away from

contaminated sites.

Clothing: Wear gloves, long-sleeved shirts,

long pants, shoes and socks to avoid skin

contact. Goggles are also a good idea

Contact with wet ash can cause chemical

burns or skin irritation. Change your shoes

and clothing before you leave the cleanup

site to avoid tracking ash offsite, into your

car, or other places.

Use an N95 respirator and

avoid skin contact with ash.

Protecting your lungs: Wear a tight-fitting

respirator that filters ash particles from the

air you breathe to help protect your lungs.

Select a respirator that has been tested and

approved by NIOSH and has the words

“NIOSH” and either “N95” or “P100” printed

on it. These have two straps and are

available online, and at many hardware

stores and pharmacies. Buy respirators in a

size that can be tightened over your mouth

and nose with a snug seal to your face.

Surgical masks and one-strap dust masks will

not protect your lungs. They are not

designed to seal tightly to the face. If you

have heart or lung disease talk to your

doctor before using a respirator or working

around ash.

Cleanup: Avoid stirring up or sifting through

ash as much as you can. Avoid actions that

kick ash particles up into the air, such as dry

sweeping. Before sweeping indoor and

outdoor hard surfaces, mist them with water

to keep dust down. Follow with wet

mopping. Use a damp cloth or wet mop on

lightly dusted areas. When you wet down

ash, use as little water as you can.

Vacuum: Use a high-efficiency particulate air

(HEPA)-type vacuum to clean dusty surfaces.

Don’t use a typical household vacuum or a

shop vacuum. They will send the collected

dust or ash out into the air. Don’t use leaf

blowers or do anything else that will put ash

into the air.

Wash your hands well before eating. Check

with your drinking water provider to be sure

your water is safe to drink.

Disposal: Collected ash may be disposed of

in the regular trash. Ash should be stored in

plastic bags or other containers to prevent it

from being stirred up. If you suspect

hazardous waste, including asbestos, is

present, contact your local hazardous waste

authorities regarding appropriate disposal.

Avoid washing ash into storm drains.

Food and Water: Wash any home-grown

fruits or vegetables from trees or gardens

where ash has fallen. Avoid bringing food or

eating at the affected site, unless you keep

the food in a sealed container.

For more information:

•

Get air quality information: Check your local news, the airnow.gov website, or your state air quality agency’s website.

•

Learn about home air cleaners: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/guide-air-cleaners-home

•

•

Find certified air cleaning devices: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/aircleaners/certified.htm

Learn how to use an N95 respirator mask: http://www.bepreparedcalifornia.ca.gov/ResourcesAndLinks/Languages/

Documents/English/ENG_ProtectLungsSmoke7208color.pdf

Learn more about wildfire smoke: Wildfire Smoke, A Guide for Public Health Officials:

https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/wildfire_may2016.pdf

•

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · EPA- 452/F-18-004

WILDFIRE SMOKE FACTSHEET

Indoor Air Filtration

When wildfre smoke gets inside your home it can make your indoor air unhealthy, but there are steps you can take to

protect your health and improve the air quality in your home. Reducing indoor sources of pollution is a major step toward

lowering the concentrations of particles indoors. For example, avoid burning candles, smoking tobacco products, using

aerosol products, and avoid using a gas or wood-burning stove or freplace. Another step is air fltration. This fact sheet

discusses efective options for fltering your home’s indoor air to reduce indoor air pollution.

Filtration Options

There are two efective options for improving air fltration

flter (MERV 13-16) can reduce indoor particles by as much

in the home: 1) upgrading the central air system flter,

as 95 percent. Filters with a High Efciency Particulate

and 2) using high efciency portable air cleaners. Before

Air (HEPA) rating, (or MERV 17-20) are the most efcient.

discussing fltration options, it is important to understand

You may need to consult with a local heating and air

the basics of flter efciency.

technician or the manufacturer of your central air system

Filter Efciency

to confrm which (or if ) high efciency flters will work

The most common industry standard for flter efciency

with your system. If you can’t switch to a more efcient

is the Minimum Efciency Reporting Value, or “MERV

flter, running the system continuously by switching the

rating.” The MERV scale for residential flters ranges from 1

thermostat fan from “Auto” to “On” has been shown to

through 20. The higher the MERV rating the more particles

reduce particle concentrations by as much as 24 percent.

are captured as the air passes through the flter. Higher

Portable Air Cleaners

MERV (higher efciency) flters are especially efective at

Portable air cleaners are self-contained air fltration

capturing very small particles that can most afect health.

appliances that can be used alone or with enhanced

Central Air System Filter

central air fltration to efectively remove particles. How

The flter used in the central heating/cooling system

well they reduce air particle concentrations depends on

of the home can efectively reduce indoor particle

several factors such as the size of the air cleaner, the area

concentrations when the system is operating or when

to be cleaned, the flter efciency, how frequently the

only the fan is turned on. Most home systems use a low

unit is turned on and the fan speed. Portable air cleaners

MERV (1-4) fberglass flter that is 1” thick. Replacing

ftted with high efciency flters can reduce indoor particle

this flter with a medium efciency flter (MERV 5-8) can

concentrations by as much as 85 percent. Furthermore,

signifcantly improve the air quality in your home. Higher

portables can be operated continuously at a lower cost

efciency flters (MERV 9-12) will work even better, and a

compared to the continuous operation of a central system.

true high efciency

Choosing a Portable Air Cleaner

There are a wide variety of air cleaners on the market,

Electronic air cleaners are not currently regulated,

ranging in price from about $50 to $3,000. Air cleaners

except in California. Caution should be used when

that cost less than about $200 often do not clean the

selecting an electronic air cleaner, as they may

air as well and may not be helpful for wildfre smoke.

generate ozone and/or other potentially harmful

Types of Air Cleaners

chemical compounds. Air cleaners certifed as being

Most air cleaners fall under two basic categories: 1)

ozone-safe can be found on California’s list of certifed

mechanical and 2) electronic.

air cleaners at: https://www.arb.ca.gov/research/

Mechanical air cleaners operate by pulling air through

indoor/aircleaners/certifed.htm.

a flter that traps particles. Mechanical air cleaners

Size Rating of Air Cleaner

are very reliable and do not produce ozone, an air

When purchasing an air cleaner, check the square

pollutant that is a known health hazard. Filters in

footage rating of the device to be sure that the

these devices need to be replaced according to the

air cleaner capacity is appropriate for the space it

manufacturers’ recommendations, or when the flter is

is intended to clean. A useful way to estimate the

dirty and the air cleaner is not operating efciently.

proper size device is the Clean Air Delivery Rate, or

Electronic air cleaners often use an electrical charge

CADR, which is the removal efciency for a specifc

to charge particles and remove them from the air.

size particle and volume of air delivered by an air

The three main types of electronic air cleaners

cleaner in one minute. A useful tool to determine the

are electrostatic precipitators (ESPs), ionizers, and

appropriate air cleaner size for the intended space can

intentional ozone generators. ESPs have plates

be found at http://www.ahamdir.com.

(collectors) that need to be cleaned when they get

Efciency and Noise

dirty. Ionizers work by making particles deposit on

For best results, the portable air cleaner you purchase

nearby materials. Ozone generators produce large

should have a flter rated as “high efciency” (high

amounts of ozone, and should never be used in

MERV) or HEPA. The flters for these devices may

homes or other occupied spaces. Other types of

be more expensive but will do a much better job

electronic air cleaners use ultraviolet (UV) bulbs and

of cleaning the air than devices with cheap, low

surface coatings like titanium dioxide to improve the

efciency flters.

removal of pollutants. However, these devices can

Noise level is also an important consideration, as some

emit ozone and some that are designed to remove

air cleaners can be quite loud when operating at the

chemicals actually emit volatile organic chemicals

maximum settings. If noise level is important to you,

into the air. This includes devices that are sold as

look for models with low noise ratings, or those that

“hydroxyl” generators.

are rated by a reputable reviewer as quiet.

For more information on air cleaning devices:

•

California Air Resources website: https://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/aircleaners/

consumers.htm

•

Learn about home air cleaners: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/guide-air-cleaners-home

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · EPA- 452/F-18-005

WILDFIRE SMOKE FACTSHEET

Protect Your Lungs from

Wildfire Smoke or Ash

Wildfire smoke and ash can irritate your eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. They can make you cough or

wheeze, and can make it hard to breathe. A respirator is a device (mask) that covers your nose and

mouth, fits tightly to your face, and can filter out smoke or ash particles before you breathe them in.

Respirators are not sized for children.

Protecting Your Health

The most effective way to protect yourself

during wildfire emergencies is to stay indoors or

limit your time outdoors when there is smoke

in the air. This is especially important if you

have heart or lung disease and are at higher risk

for adverse health effects. Reducing physical

activity and using HEPA-filtered air cleaners

indoors are other ways to reduce your smoke

exposure. Consider temporary relocation out

of the smoky area if possible. By limiting your

exposure one of these ways, you may not need

to wear a respirator.

Respirators Can Help Protect Your

Lungs

N95 or P100 respirators can help protect your

lungs from smoke or ash. Straps must go above

and below the ears.

How Do I Know if I Need to Wear a

Respirator?

•

People who stay indoors or limit their time

outdoors during wildfire emergencies are

doing the most effective thing to avoid

exposure and may not need to wear a

respirator.

•

People who must be outside for extended

periods of time in smoky air or an ashcovered area may benefit from using a tightfitting N95 or P100 respirator to reduce their

exposure.

•

People experiencing health effects from

a smoky environment, even if indoors,

may also benefit from using a tight-fitting

respirator to reduce their exposure.

•

For people who want to wear a respirator,

learning how to select and correctly use

the respirator is important for achieving the

most protection possible.

Choose the Correct Respirator

•

Respirators are sold at many hardware and

home repair stores and pharmacies.

•

Choose a “particulate respirator” that has

been tested and approved by the National

Institute of Occupational Safety and Health

(NIOSH). It will have the words “NIOSH” and

either “N95” or “P100” printed on it.

•

Choose a respirator that has two (2) straps to

go around your head.

•

•

•

Follow instructions on the package about

how to check for a tight face seal.

•

Make sure the skin is clean shaven where

the respirator touches the face. A good

seal is not possible with facial hair.

•

Throw away your respirator when it gets

harder to breathe through, or if it gets

dirty.

Possible Risks

•

Choose a size that will fit over your nose and

under your chin and seal tightly to your face.

Any leakage around the edge of the mask

causes unfiltered air to enter and be inhaled.

Wearing a respirator can make it harder

to breathe. If you have heart or lung

problems, ask your doctor before using a

respirator.

•

Do NOT choose a mask with only one strap

or two straps that go around your ears. They

are not designed to seal tightly to the face

and will not protect your lungs.

If you have difficulty breathing, get dizzy,

or have other symptoms while wearing a

respirator, go to a place with cleaner air

and remove it.

•

Wearing a respirator, especially if it’s hot or

you are physically active, can increase the

risk of heat-related illness. Take breaks often

and drink water.

•

Respirators do not come in sizes suitable

for children. Since they would not fit well

enough to provide a tight face seal, they

would not be effective at reducing exposure.

How to Use this Type of Respirator

•

To get a secure fit, place the respirator over

your nose and under your chin, with one

strap placed below the ears and one strap

above the ears (see photo on page 1).

•

Pinch the metal part of the respirator (if

there is one) over the top of your nose so it

fits securely.

For more information:

•

To learn more about protecting yourself from wildfire smoke, contact your local or state health department

or go to www.airnow.gov

•

To learn more about respirators, visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/default.html

•

Infographic about respirators: https://airnow.gov/static/topics/images/epa-infographic-respirator.jpg

•

How to put on and remove your respirator: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2010-133/pdfs/2010-133.pdf

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · EPA- 452/F-18-002

WILDFIRE SMOKE FACTSHEET

Protecting Children from Wildfire

Smoke and Ash

Background

• Children are especially at risk for health effects

from exposure to wildfire smoke and ash,

mostly because their lungs are still growing.

• Wildfire concerns include the fire itself, the

smoke and ash, and the chemicals from

materials that have burned, such as furniture.

• Smoke can travel hundreds of miles from the

source of a fire. Pay attention to local air

quality reports during fire season, even if no

fire is nearby.

Health Effects from Wildfire

Smoke and Ash

• Children who breathe in wildfire smoke and ash

can have chest pain and tightness; trouble

breathing; wheezing; coughing; nose, throat,

and eye burning; dizziness; or other symptoms.

• Children with asthma, allergies, or chronic health

issues may have more trouble breathing when

smoke or ash is present.

Preparing for Wildfires

• Pay attention to local air quality reports. Stay

alert to smoke-related news coverage and

public health advisories.

• Look up your local Air Quality Index (AQI) on the

AirNow (www.airnow.gov) web site.

• If Enviroflash is available for your area, sign up

for air quality alerts.

(http://www.enviroflash.info/).

• Create a "clean room" in your home. Choose a

room with few windows and doors. Buy a

portable air cleaner you can use in this room.

Never use an ozone-generating air cleaner.

• Stock up on food, medicine and child care

supplies before the threat of a wildfire.

• Remember that you may need to leave your

home. Plan for it and prepare your children.

During Wildfires

• Continue to listen to local reports and public

health warnings.

• Keep children indoors with the doors and

windows closed. Use your “clean room”. If you

have an air conditioner, run it with the freshair intake closed to keep outdoor smoke from

getting indoors. Use your portable air cleaner

as well. Reduce health risks by avoiding

strenuous activities.

• Keep the indoor air as clean as possible. Do not

smoke. Do not use gas, propane, or woodburning stoves, fireplaces, or candles. Never

use ozone-generating air cleaners. Never use

natural gas or gasoline-powered generators

indoors. Do not use spray cans. Do not fry or

broil meat. Do not vacuum. All of these can

lead to poor air quality.

• A good time to open windows to air out the

house and clean away dust indoors is once air

quality improves (check AirNow for updates).

• Use common sense to guide your child's activity.

If it looks or smells smoky outside, if local air

quality is reported as poor, or if local officials

are giving health warnings, wait until air

quality improves before your family is active

outdoors.

Special considerations:

• If your child has any problem breathing, is very

sleepy, refuses food and water, or other health

concerns, reduce his/her exposure to smoke

and seek medical help right away.

• If your child has asthma, allergies, or a chronic

health condition, he/she is at high risk from

health effects related to wildfire smoke and

ash. Seek medical advice as needed. For

children with asthma, follow the asthma action

plan.

• Do not rely on masks for protection from smoke.

Paint, dust and surgical masks, even N95

masks, are not made to fit children and will not

protect children from breathing wildfire

smoke. Humidifiers or breathing through a wet

washcloth do not prevent breathing in smoke.

Evacuation

• Seek shelter in another place (e.g., public air

shelter) if your family does not have an air

conditioner OR air cleaner OR if it is too warm

in your home to stay inside with the windows

closed. Plan to take the quickest route to the

shelter to limit exposure to smoke.

• Bring all medication (taken by each family

member) with you.

• Reduce smoke in your vehicle by closing the

windows and vents and operating the air

conditioning with the fresh intake closed to

keep outdoor smoke from getting into car.

Never leave children in a car or truck alone.

After a Wildfire

• Make sure ash and debris have been removed

before bringing your child back to home or

school.

• Children should not be doing any cleanup work.

Fires may deposit large amounts of ash and

dust with harmful chemicals.

Avoid bringing polluted ash and dust back to

areas used by children (such as a home or car).

Remove shoes at the doorway, wash clothing

separately, and change out of clothing before

you have contact with your children.

For more information:

Learn more about wildfire smoke: Wildfire Smoke, A Guide for Public Health Officials:

https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/wildfire_may2016.pdf

Get air quality information: Check the airnow.gov website, or your state air quality agency’s website.

Air Quality Flag Program: This visual tool alerts schools and organizations and their communities to the

local air quality forecast. https://airnow.gov/flag

Learn about home air cleaners: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/guide-air-cleaners-home

Find certified air cleaning devices: http://www.arb.ca.gov/research/indoor/aircleaners/certified.htm

Contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for emergency concerns regarding ingestion or exposure to

hazards.

Contact your Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit with children’s environmental health

questions: www.pehsu.net

Document Authored by Marissa Hauptman, MD, MPH, Laura Anderko, PhD, RN, Jason Sacks, MPH, Lora Strine, Scott Damon MAIA, Susan Stone, MS,

Wayne Cascio, MD, Martha Berger, MPA. Aspects of this fact sheet were adapted from 2011 PEHSU Factsheet: Health Risks of Wildfires for Children Acute Phase Guidance by James M. Seltzer, M.D., Mark Miller, M.D., M.P.H, and Diane Seltzer, M.A.—Region 9 Western States Pediatric

Environmental Health Specialty Unit.

This document was supported in part by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Medical Toxicology and funded (in part) by

the cooperative agreement award number FAIN: U61TS000237 and UG1TS000238 from the Agency for Toxic Substances Disease Registry (ATSDR). The

U.S. EPA supports the PEHSU by providing funds to ATSDR under Inter-Agency Agreement number DW-75-92301301. Neither U.S. EPA not ATSDR

endorses the purchase of any commercial products or services mentioned in PEHSU publications.

This factsheet is dedicated in memory of Dr. James M. Seltzer as well as the first responders and others who have been affected by wildfires.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency · EPA- 452/F-18-006

Your pets can be affected by wildfire smoke. If you feel the effects of smoke, they probably do, too!

Smoke can irritate your pet’s eyes and respiratory tract. Animals with heart or lung disease and older pets are

especially at risk from smoke and should be closely watched during all periods of poor air quality.

Know the Signs

If your animals have any of these signs, call your

veterinarian:

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Coughing or gagging

Red or watery eyes, nasal discharge,

inflammation of throat or mouth or

reluctance to eat hard foods

Trouble breathing, including open-mouth

breathing, more noise when breathing, or

fast breathing

Fatigue or weakness, disorientation, uneven

gait, stumbling

Reduced appetite or thirst

Recommended Actions

Even if the fire danger is not imminent, high levels

of smoke may force you to stay indoors for a long

time or even to evacuate. Reduce your pet’s

exposure to smoke as you would reduce your own.

Before the fire season:

• Whether you have a central air conditioning

system or a room unit, buy high efficiency

filters you can use to capture fine particles

from smoke.

• Think about creating a clean room in your

house with a portable air cleaner.

When smoke is present:

• Keep pets indoors as much as you can, with

doors and windows closed. Bring outdoor

pets into a room with good ventilation, like

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a utility room, garage, or bathroom. Move

potentially dangerous products, such as

pesticides, out of the reach of pets.

Smoke is especially tough on your pet

birds. Keep them inside when smoke is

present.

Keep indoor air clean: do not fry or broil

foods, vacuum, burn candles, use a

fireplace or woodstove, or smoke tobacco

products. These activities add particles to

your home.

Spend less time outdoors and limit physical

activities when it is smoky. For example,

when it’s smoky, it’s not a good time for

you and your pet to go for a run. Let dogs

and cats outside only for brief bathroom

breaks if air quality alerts are in effect.

Be ready to evacuate: Include your pets in your

planning. Have each pet permanently identified, for

example with a microchip. Know where they will be

allowed to go if there is an evacuation – not all

emergency shelters accept pets. Know where your

pets might hide when stressed, so you won’t have

to spend time looking for them in an emergency.

Get pets used to their carriers and have your family

practice evacuating with your pets. Covering

carriers with a sheet during transport may calm a

nervous pet.

If you must leave your pets behind, never

tie them up.

Evacuation Kit

Prepare a pet Evacuation Kit. Assemble

the kit well before any emergency and

store it in an easy-to-carry, waterproof

container close to an exit.

• Food, water, and medicine for 7 to 10

days

• Sanitation and first aid supplies

• Important documents, such as:

identification papers including proof of

ownership; vaccination records;

medical records and medication

instructions; emergency contact list,

including veterinarian and pharmacy;

and a photo of your pet (preferably

with you)

• Travel supplies, such as: crate or pet

carrier labeled with your contact

information; extra collar/harness with

ID tags and leash; flashlight, extra

batteries; and muzzle

• Comfort items, such as favorite toys

and treats, and an extra blanket or

familiar bedding

For more information:

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Get air quality information: Check your local news, the airnow.gov website, or your state air quality agency’s

website.

Reduce Your Smoke Exposure fact sheet: https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/smoke_fires/reduce-your-smokeexposure.pdf

Learn more about wildfire smoke: Wildfire Smoke Guide for Public Health Officials: https://airnow.gov/

American Veterinary Medical Association. Get more tips and information on caring for pets and livestock

during a wildfire: https://www.avma.org/public/EmergencyCare/Pages/Wildfire-Smoke-and-Animals.aspx

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency • EPA-452/F-19-002

Protect Your Large Animals and

Livestock from Wildfire Smoke

Your animals can be affected by wildfire smoke. If you feel the effects of smoke, they probably do too! High

levels of smoke are harmful. Long exposure to lower levels of smoke can also irritate animals’ eyes and

respiratory tract and make it hard for them to breathe. Reduce your animals’ exposure to smoke the same

way you reduce your own: spend less time in smoky areas and limit physical activity. Animals with heart or

lung disease and older animals are especially at risk from smoke and should be closely watched during all

periods of poor air quality. Take the following actions to protect your large animals and livestock against

wildfire smoke.

Protect Your Animals During Smoke Episodes

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Limit strenuous activities that increase the

amount of smoke breathed into the lungs.

Provide plenty of fresh water near feeding

areas.

Limit dust exposure by feeding low-dust or

dust-free feeds and sprinkling or misting the

livestock holding areas.

Consider moving outdoor birds to a less smoky

environment, such as a garage or basement.

Give your livestock 4 to 6 weeks to recover fully

from smoky conditions before resuming

strenuous activity.

Protect yourself, too! Think about wearing an

N95 or P100 respirator while taking care of

your animals.

Prepare Before a Wildfire

Know where to take your livestock if smoke

persists or becomes severe, or if you need to

evacuate. Good barn and field maintenance can

reduce fire danger for horses and other livestock.

Record Keeping

• Make sure your animals have permanent

identification (ear tags, tattoos, electronic

microchips, brands, etc.).

• Keep pictures of animals, especially high-value

animals, such as horses, up-to-date.

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Keep a list of the species, number and locations

of your animals with your evacuation supplies.

Note animals’ favorite hiding spots. This will

save precious rescue time!

Keep vaccination records, medical records and

registration papers with your Evacuation Kit.

Preparing for Evacuations

• Assemble an Evacuation Kit.

• Know where you can temporarily shelter your

livestock. Contact your local fairgrounds,

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stockyards, equestrian centers, etc. about their

policies.

Identify trailer resources and train all livestock

to load in those trailers.

Make an evacuation plan for your animals. Plan

several different evacuation routes.

Check with local emergency management

officials before you need to evacuate.

Do not wait until the last minute. Corral animals

to prepare for off-site movement.

Above all, ensure the safety of you and your

family.

Evacuation Kit

This list has just some recommended items for

large animals and livestock. Your animals may have

their own special requirements.

• Supply of feed, supplements and water for 7 to

10 days.

• Blankets, halters, leads, water buckets, manure

fork and trash barrel.

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Copies of vaccination records, medical records

and proof of ownership.

Tools: flashlight, heavy leather gloves, rope,

shovel, knife and wire cutters.

Animal care instructions for diet and

medications (for animals left at a shelter).

Emergency cash, emergency contact list and

first aid kit.

If You Must Leave Your Animals Behind

• If evacuation cannot be accomplished in a safe

and timely way, have a preselected, cleared

area where your animals can move about.

• Open gates, cut fences, or herd livestock into

areas of lower fire risk.

• Let neighbors and first responders know to be

on the lookout for your animals.

• Leave enough food and water for 48 to 72

hours. Do not rely on automatic watering

systems.

• Once you leave your property, do not return

until told to do so by officials.

For more information:

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Get air quality information: Check your local news, the airnow.gov website, or your state air quality

agency’s website.

Reduce Your Smoke Exposure Fact Sheet: https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/smoke_fires/reduce-yoursmoke-exposure.pdf

Learn more about wildfire smoke: Wildfire Smoke, A Guide for Public Health Officials:

https://www3.epa.gov/airnow/wildfire_may2016.pdf

American Veterinary Medical Association. Get more tips and information on caring for pets and

livestock during a wildfire:

https://www.avma.org/public/EmergencyCare/Pages/Wildfire-Smoke-and-Animals.aspx

https://www.avma.org/public/EmergencyCare/Pages/Large-Animals-and-Livestock-inDisasters.aspx

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency • EPA-452/F-19-001