Smoke and Wildfire

Breathing in smoke can cause health problems for sensitive groups and healthy adults.

When wildfires burn, winds can push smoke into populated areas. Wildfire smoke is full of different pollutants, including particulate matter and carbon monoxide. We also see high ozone levels.

Wildfires in the Northwest have increased since the 1980s. Scientists attribute this to human-caused climate change. This means more bad air days from wildfire smoke in Multnomah County.

Track Air Quality & Fires

• Fire and smoke map (AirNow) | 503-229-5696
• Oregon Smoke Blog
• Wood-burning restrictions, local fire department burn bans
• PublicAlerts - Sign up to get emergency alerts by phone, text and email
• Smoke Sense App - Download for your phone 

Prepare for a Smoke Event 

1. Make a plan to keep wildfire smoke out of your home. Clean or replace air filters if you have AC or an air cleaner.
2. Learn about masks
3. Have a several day supply of medications, and groceries that don’t require cooking
4. Make a plan in case you need to evacuate

More Information

Oregon Health Authority Wildfire Smoke and Your Health 

Educators & Parents

• Guidance for School Outdoor Activities
• Factsheets for Facility Managers, Principals, Teachers, and Parents and Caregivers
  Schools as Community Cleaner Air Centers and Cooling Spaces (10.08 MB)

• Oregon Health Authority's Healthcare Provider Guidance
• Oregon OSHA
• Protect your pets