This post has been archived and contains information that may be out of date.
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) offers various resources to help mitigate the effects of poor air quality during wildfires, including a guide for public health professionals, a web page where residents can check their local air quality, and FAQs.
The guide for public health officials and others interested in the health effects of wildfire smoke provides information on regulatory air monitoring, the air quality index, strategies for reducing exposure, public health considerations, and more.
The web page where state residents can check their local air quality also includes updates on current wildfires and links to other resources, such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention’s wildfires page.
CDPH urges the public to monitor children’s exposure to poor air quality and to check on those who may be more susceptible to the health effects of wildfire smoke. The agency also reminds residents near wildfires to seek immediate medical care if they experience chest pain, chest tightness, or shortness of breath.