What you can do
handy indoor air checklist.
UNDERSTAND THE HEALTH IMPACTSWildfire smoke is Western Montana's most significant source of air pollution these days, and Eastern parts of the state are being affected. We cannot sugarcoat the impacts of wildfire smoke on human health. Tiny particulate matter (PM) enters the air and can cause serious health effects for folks, especially those with a higher risk; children, older adults, people with heart and respiratory disease, and pregnant people. Understanding how your health is affected by smoke will help you understand how to prepare and adapt.
The smoke is bad for you. It’s bad for everyone. These pollutants can even exacerbate viruses like COVID-19. Learn more on the health risks page. |
MAKE A PLAN TO CREATE CLEAN INDOOR AIRScience is providing us with new information and best practices every day. There are many ways to reduce your health risks during periods of wildfire smoke, including various home fixes, using a HEPA portable air purifier, and more. Prepare to breathe clean and stay healthy during smoke events. Check out the Clean Indoor Air pages for help making your plan.
KNOW HOW TO CHECK AIR QUALITY in your areaStay up to date on the smoke levels with information from today's air page. Accurate air quality maps and forecasts can help you plan your days, adjust your activities, and get outside during the healthiest times of the day.
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CHECK IN ON YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORSWhen it's hot and smoky, we need to check in on our friends and neighbors. We know COVID and wildfire smoke are a bad combination. If you or anyone you know is not yet vaccinated, please don't delay. And if you're recovering from COVID, do take extra preparations to stay healthy if smoke comes our way.
We're helping to provide clean indoor air for those most at risk, in order to protect health, and save lives. Studies show that health impacts from smoke exposure extend months or even years after smoke has dissipated, highlighting the need for interventions. |
REDUCE TIME OUTSIDE When there is smoke presentWe all need fresh air, sunlight, and exercise. During periods of wildfire smoke, it's easy to feel unhappy or trapped when we're told to stay indoors or reduce physical activity, and when we can't see the sun through the smoke. Health officials know this, which is why it's important to find a balance that works for you, given the ever-changing conditions. Additionally, many people work outside and do not have the option to stay indoors. Visit our Outdoor Safety page for tips and tricks.
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ADVOCATE AND ORGANIZE TO PROMOTE HEALTH AND RESILIENCY
Montana has a unique landscape with populated mountain valleys and dense forests covering much of the western half of the state. Our climate is changing and we're seeing hotter and drier summers, resulting in longer and more intense wildfire seasons, and more smoke. Can you work with local government and leaders in your community to begin planning and acting today? Visit The Science page to learn more about our changing climate, and the reasons to prepare for and address wildfire smoke as a public health issue.
There are multiple ways for Montana communities to prepare for and adapt to changing fire seasons. Wildfire smoke is a public health issue, and strategies such as utilizing portable air cleaners and smarter building design can help people stay healthy and cool. There are other risks from climate change that we in Montana need to understand and build strategies to address. And we need to work together reduce the root cause by reducing carbon pollution!
There are multiple ways for Montana communities to prepare for and adapt to changing fire seasons. Wildfire smoke is a public health issue, and strategies such as utilizing portable air cleaners and smarter building design can help people stay healthy and cool. There are other risks from climate change that we in Montana need to understand and build strategies to address. And we need to work together reduce the root cause by reducing carbon pollution!