TUESDAY, Aug. 18, 2026 (HealthDay News) — Wildfires are on the rise in many parts of the world, bringing with them major health threats.

Three years ago, my community had two large wildfires that tore through the area, burning hundreds of structures. The fires moved so quickly that many people barely escaped with the clothes on their backs. Between emergency medication refills and the number of people affected by the thick smoke that blanketed our area, our office was inundated with calls and visits.

Two weeks ago, we made national news because of three wildfires that burned more than 900 structures. More than 65,000 people were evacuated, and many more were put on alert that they may have to leave at a moment's notice. My phone rang at 2 a.m., and we were notified that we were now in a "Get Set" zone — a level 2 emergency evacuation warning. I spent more than a week with packed bags, and every time the phone rang, I wondered if it was the county telling us to go.

As bad air days become more and more common for those in and around wildfire zones, it’s a good idea to be prepared and learn ways to keep your lungs and system healthy over the long term.

Here's some advice to protect yourself and your loved ones when smoke-filled air comes to your area:

Understand The Health Risks

Wildfire smoke contains a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants and buildings. You may notice a thick yellow or gray haze in the sky. These particles can irritate your eyes, nose, throat and lungs. People with chronic heart or lung conditions, children, older adults and pregnant women can be very sensitive to this pollution. Even healthy individuals may have symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath and eye irritation on bad air days.

Monitor Air Quality

Stay updated about local air quality by checking reputable online resources, such as AirNow, EPA, IQAir or smartphone apps. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a useful tool that classifies air quality levels from good to hazardous. When the AQI is high, limit outdoor activity and stay indoors as much as possible. Summer and fall are when wildfires tend to erupt and spread.

Create A Clean Indoor Environment

Keep doors and windows closed when smoky air from wildfires is present. Use air conditioning in recirculate mode and avoid activities that increase indoor air pollution, such as burning candles or vacuuming. Consider using a portable HEPA air purifier to clean indoor air. If you need to drive, keep your car windows up and use the “recirculate air” setting. The recirculate air button has a car symbol with a U-turn arrow on it. It circulates the air inside the car and keeps the hot, smoky outdoor air out. 

Protect Your Lungs

If you must go outside, wear a well-fitted N95 respirator mask. Surgical or cloth masks do not protect against the fine particles in wildfire smoke. Limit physical activity outdoors and try to reschedule outdoor activities for times when the air quality is better.

Prepare For Evacuation

Have an emergency kit ready with important documents, medications, water and a change of clothes. Follow local authorities’ instructions regarding evacuation orders. If you have a chronic medical condition, make sure you have enough medication on hand for several days.

Watch For Symptoms

Be alert for symptoms of smoke exposure, such as chronic coughing, wheezing, chest pain or difficulty breathing. If you or someone in your household develops severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Support Vulnerable Community Members

Check in on neighbors, particularly the elderly, children and those with health conditions. Help where you can and share reliable health information.

Wildfire season can be stressful, but by staying updated and prepared, you can reduce health risks for yourself and those around you. If you have particular health concerns, consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to you.

More information

AirNow.gov has more information on how to be smoke ready.

SOURCES: New England Journal of Medicine, Oct. 9, 2020; Environmental Science and Technology, Nov. 8, 2024; Pediatric Pulmonology, Feb. 9, 2026; Annals of the American Thoracic Society, June 1, 2021; Science of the Total Environment, Feb. 25, 2025; Journal of the American Medical Association, July 10, 2024; U.S. Department of Agriculture