07/31/2026
WILDFIRE SMOKE AND YOUR HEALTH: COMMUNITY HEALTH INFORMATION AND EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Posted by: July 30, 2026
Wildfire smoke can affect communities many miles from an active fire. Even if you are not near the fire itself, smoke can travel long distances and reduce air quality, potentially affecting your health.
We are sharing this educational resource during the Woodside Fire in Sonoma County because smoke associated with the fire may affect air quality across parts of Sonoma County and neighboring communities, depending on weather conditions and wind patterns. While the current fire provides the immediate context, the practical health information, recommendations, and resources presented here are broadly applicable to wildfire smoke events and can help individuals, families, and communities prepare for future smoke episodes.
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles (PM₂.₅) that can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, worsen asthma and other lung diseases, and increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems. Older adults, children, pregnant people, outdoor workers, and individuals with heart or lung conditions may be especially vulnerable.
Here are a few ways to protect yourself:
(1) Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before spending extended time outdoors.
(2) Reduce outdoor activities when air quality reaches unhealthy levels.
(3) Keep indoor air as clean as possible by closing windows and doors when appropriate and using a HEPA air cleaner or your home's air filtration system, if available.
(4) If you must be outdoors in heavy smoke, wear a properly fitted NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 respirator.
(5) Monitor your health and seek medical care if you experience worsening breathing problems, chest pain, or other concerning symptoms.
(6) If you live in an evacuation area, follow instructions issued by local emergency officials.
This educational resource includes-
• Current Air Quality Index (AQI) guidance
• Woodside Fire maps and current conditions
• Practical strategies to reduce wildfire smoke exposure
• Guidance on respirator use
• Tips for protecting children, older adults, and other higher-risk populations
• Symptoms to watch for and when to seek medical care
This educational resource was prepared by Dr. Zaw Wai Htoo, Advisor, Community Nutrition and Health Program, University of California Cooperative Extension, San Francisco North Bay to support community health, preparedness, and informed decision-making during wildfire smoke events.
Information is current at the time of publication. Wildfire conditions and air quality can change rapidly. Please refer to official agencies for the latest incident-specific updates.
https://ucanr.edu/county/marin-county/article/wildfire-smoke-and-your-health-health-and-safety-information-education
https://www.facebook.com/reel/27388041490891599
https://ucanr.edu/county/ucce-sonoma-county/community-nutrition-and-health (Tap the link and scroll to "Education, Trainings, and Events" to read the full article on UCCE Sonoma County Page.)
