Preparing for Wildfire Smoke: Protecting Health and Building Community Resilience

California’s wildfire seasons are no longer short bursts of danger—they’re longer, more intense, and increasingly tied to climate change. In 2024, the U.S. experienced 122% of the normal acres burned compared to the 10-year average. Fires now start earlier in spring, burn later into autumn, and send smoke hundreds or even thousands of miles from the flames. In our region, events like the Palisades and Eaton Fires remind us that wildfire risk isn’t just about flames—it’s about the air we breathe.

Wildfire smoke is more than a nuisance—it contains tiny particles that can damage the lungs and heart. Coughing, wheezing, chest pain, nausea, and worsening of chronic conditions like asthma or heart disease are common during smoke events. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable. Preparing now can protect health during peak wildfire season and strengthen long-term community resilience.

Stay Informed

Monitoring local air quality is the first step. The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (VCAPCD) is dedicated to protecting public health and agriculture by working with businesses, public agencies, and residents to keep our air clean and to notify us when air quality is poor. When wildfire smoke impacts our region, or when the Air Quality Index reaches unhealthy levels, VCAPCD provides real-time air quality data, daily forecasts, and air quality alerts. Here’s a summary of their resources to help Ventura County stay safe:

1. Check Air Quality: Visit AirNow.gov, use the AirNow app, or see fire-specific maps at fire.airnow.gov.
2. Sign Up for Alerts: Register for VCAPCD’s email or text alerts. For farmworker smoke alerts, text “SMOKE” (English) or “HUMO” (Spanish/Mixteco/Zapoteco) to 855-522-0034.
3. Follow Social Media: Updates are shared on Facebook, Nextdoor, and X.

Create a Clean-Air Room

A clean-air room can provide safe breathing space during heavy smoke days.

1. Choose the Right Room: Pick a space with no exterior door in regular use—bedrooms with attached bathrooms work well.
2. Seal and Cool: Close windows/doors, turn HVAC or AC units to recirculation mode, and close blinds.
3. Filter the Air: Use a portable HEPA purifier sized for your room. If cost is a barrier, build a DIY purifier with a box fan and HEPA filter.
4. Limit Activity: Avoid exercise to reduce inhalation of fine particles.

Smoke-Proof Your Home

Small upgrades can make a big difference:

1. Seal leaks around windows and doors; consider a professional blower door test.
2. Upgrade HVAC filters to MERV 13 or higher if compatible, and run the fan on “on” rather than “auto” to maximize filtration.
3. Avoid adding indoor pollutants by not burning candles, smoking, or frying foods during smoke events.

Have a Health & Safety Plan

1. Keep N95 or P100 respirators on hand for necessary outdoor trips.
2. If you or a family member has a respiratory or heart condition, speak with your doctor about managing symptoms during smoke events and keep at least a five-day supply of medications.

Adaptation in Action

Preparing for wildfire smoke isn’t just about personal safety—it’s part of climate adaptation. Communities that invest in cleaner indoor air, and resilient infrastructure are better equipped to handle the increasing impacts of climate change.

Resources for More Information:

1. AirNow Wildfire Guide
2. California Air Resources Board indoor air cleaning devices
3. VCAPCD Alerts & Programs

By taking action now, we can protect our health, support vulnerable neighbors, and build resilience for the wildfire seasons ahead.