Track air quality & fires
You can find information about current conditions on AirNow’s Fire and smoke map. It shows:
- Locations of wildfires.
- Air quality indexes from local air monitors.
Before heading out to an outdoor activity you should see:
- If there are any fires nearby.
- If smoke is affecting the area.
- What the air quality is.
You should use this information to plan activities throughout the wildfire season. It can also help with travel plans outside of the metro area.
Prepare for a smoke event
Take steps to create cleaner indoor air
- Make a plan to keep wildfire smoke out of your home. Clean or replace air filters if you have AC or an air cleaner.
- Install air cleaners/purifiers to remove any smoke that gets into the house.
- Contact a weatherization service to identify and seal any gaps in your home that might allow smoke in.
- Install an air monitor inside to track and see what the air quality is like compared to the outside.
- Purchase an induction cooktop to replace a gas stove.
Make sure you have needed supplies
- Have a several day supply of medications, and groceries that don’t require cooking.
- Stock up on N95 masks, air cleaner filters and AC/HVAC/Furnace filters.
- Check batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. If they are older than 10 years, you may want to buy new ones.
- Check fire extinguishers.
Make a plan in case you need to evacuate
Think about where you can go if the air inside your home becomes too smoky.
For pregnant people, have an evacuation plan that includes how to access prenatal care. Also, learn to recognize the signs of preterm labor.
Understand how to read AQI
Air Quality Index (AQI) uses different colors to show how good or harmful the air is to breath. Each color relates to recommendations for spending time outdoors.
- Green: Air quality is good. Have fun outdoors.
- Yellow: Air quality is moderate. Some people may be affected by the air quality. Consider staying indoors.
- Orange: Air quality is unhealthy for at risk groups. Consider wearing a mask. Limit the intensity of outdoor activities to moderate or light. People at higher risk may want to stay inside.
- Red: Air quality is unhealthy. Wearing a mask is recommended. Consider rescheduling or limiting the intensity of outdoor activities to light or stay indoors.
- Purple: Air quality is very unhealthy. Reschedule activities and stay indoors.
- Maroon: Air quality is hazardous. Reschedule activities and stay indoors.
For children and youth under 18, it’s recommended to follow the guidance from Oregon Health Authority. Oregon Air Quality Activity Guide for Children & Youth
More information can be found at EPA What is the Air Quality Index.
If you work or live outdoors
People who spend a lot of time outdoors should take specific steps to be ready for smoky days.
Outdoor workers
Employers can offer alternative assignments for outdoor workers with respiratory sensitivity, such as asthma. During unhealthy or hazardous conditions, employers should consider alternative assignments for all outdoor workers. For more information visit Oregon OSHA's wildfire smoke page.
People experiencing homelessness
It’s important to take indoor rest breaks. To find out the latest on where and if clean air shelter spaces are open, or to help someone find a clean air shelter space, click here. Or call 2-1-1 Info to learn more about clean air shelter spaces and transportation options.