Smoke is made up of gases and tiny airborne particles. The greatest health threat comes from PM2.5—microscopic particles that can travel deep into the lungs, cause inflammation, damage tissue, and even enter the bloodstream.

Breathing in smoke is harmful for everyone, not just those with existing health issues. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) notes that the following groups face a higher risk of health complications from smoke exposure:

• Individuals with or recovering from COVID-19, due to lingering lung or heart effects.
• People with chronic lung conditions like asthma or COPD, including bronchitis and emphysema.
• Anyone suffering from respiratory infections (e.g., pneumonia, the flu, or colds).
• Those with heart or circulatory problems, such as arrhythmias, heart failure, or coronary disease.
• People who’ve experienced a heart attack or stroke in the past.
• Young children and infants, whose lungs are still developing and who breathe more air per pound than adults.
• Adults over 65, especially those with undiagnosed heart or lung issues.
• Pregnant women, as both mother and baby are more vulnerable to pollutants.
• Smokers, due to already compromised lung function.
• Individuals with diabetes, who are more likely to have hidden cardiovascular issues.
  

According to the Department of Health, symptoms caused by smoke exposure can include:

• Coughing, sore throat, irritated sinuses, headaches, chest discomfort, and watery or burning eyes.
• People with heart disease may experience chest pain, fatigue, a fast or irregular heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
  Those with respiratory conditions might notice worsening symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, or trouble breathing.

Monitor Air Quality

• Visit SpokaneCleanAir.org for hourly Air Quality Index (AQI) updates.
• For statewide updates, check the Washington Smoke Blog.

Stay Indoors When Needed

• Avoid going outside when air quality is poor.
• Reference the Children and Youth Activities Guide for Air Quality to help decide when outdoor activities should be limited.

Keep Indoor Air Cleaner

• Shut windows and doors when the AQI is in the unhealthy range.
• Open them when the air quality returns to green (good), but be cautious if it’s hot indoors and you don’t have air conditioning. Seek cooler public spaces if needed.
• Use air conditioning in recirculate mode to avoid bringing in outside air. Replace filters regularly—more often during smoky conditions.
• Set up a Cleaner Air Room in your home with a HEPA filter. Portable air purifiers can help reduce indoor pollution. If you don’t have one, consider making a DIY box fan filter (instructional resources are linked below).

Reduce Indoor Pollutants

• Don’t smoke indoors, burn candles or incense, or use gas stoves, fireplaces, or sprays.
• Avoid frying food and don’t vacuum unless your vacuum uses a HEPA filter.

Take Extra Steps for Sensitive Groups

• If your child is in a summer program, ask the organizers how they plan to respond to poor air quality days.
• Pets can also suffer from smoke inhalation—keep them indoors during smoky conditions.