Wildfire smoke contains many air pollutants that are of concern for health, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and ozone. Particulate matter from wildfires has been linked to adverse health outcomes, especially respiratory problems and asthma. Children, the elderly, and persons with chronic respiratory conditions are especially at risk from wildfire smoke.
If you are near a wildfire, please visit the CDPH Emergency Preparedness Office (EPO) Wildfires webpage.
Newly Published! The San Diego 2007 wildfires and Medi-Cal emergency department presentations, inpatient hospitalizations, and outpatient visits: An observational study of smoke exposure periods and a bidirectional case-crossover analysis. (2018)
Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Emergency Department Visits Associated With Wildfire Smoke Exposure in California in 2015. (2018)
Protect Yourself and Your Home During Wildfire (EPO webpage)
Indoor Air Filtration (PDF)
Reduce Your Smoke Exposure (PDF)
Protect Yourself from Ash (PDF)
Protect Your Lungs from Wildfire Smoke or Ash (PDF)
Protecting Children from Wildfire Smoke and Ash (PDF)
Wildfire Smoke: A Guide for Public Health Officials (PDF)