Public Guidance
in case of an air-quality emergency

Who is most at risk?

  • People with asthma/COPD/heart disease, children, older adults, pregnant people.

  • Individuals with obesity and diabetes, outdoor workers.

Immediate actions when smoke is visible or odors are strong:

  • Stay indoors; close windows/doors. Use HVAC on recirculation. If available, run a portable air purifier in your main room.  If you must leave, consider an N95 mask for particles. 

  • Limit outdoor exertion. Schools/childcare: move activities indoors; use a clean-air room.

  • If you smell smoke inside, create a cleaner room (shut door, towel the gap, run air purifier).

  • For sensitive individuals with asthma/COPD: follow your action plan, keep rescue inhaler at hand.

  • Avoid vacuuming or activities that re-suspend particles indoors until thorough damp cleaning is done.

  • Keep pets indoors.

Seek medical care if:

  • Breathing is difficult, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips/face, or CO alarm activates.

  • Asthma/COPD symptoms worsen and do not improve the medications.

Cleanup & other tips:

  • Wait until outdoor air improves. Then damp-wipe hard surfaces; mop; launder exposed fabrics.

  • Wear gloves and, if dusty, a well-fitted respirator (N95) for cleaning particles; avoid sweeping dry.

  • Rinse outdoor play equipment and garden produce before use.

  • Change HVAC air filter.