Wildfires can expose people to high levels of smoke, making it important to reduce indoor and outdoor exposure while the fire is active.
People are advised to stay indoors with doors and windows closed unless they have been told to evacuate. Keeping the home cool while limiting indoor air pollution is also important. Activities that can add to indoor pollution, including smoking, using gas or wood stoves, aerosols, frying and grilling, should be avoided.
Where a heat wave occurs at the same time as a wildfire, fans should only be used to circulate indoor air. Unnecessary travel should also be reduced to limit exposure to smoke.
For those who need to go outside, wearing a well-fitting mask, if available, can help reduce exposure. The guidance emphasises reducing contact with smoke while following evacuation advice where necessary.
The measures are aimed at limiting smoke exposure during wildfires, particularly by keeping polluted outdoor air from entering homes and avoiding activities that can worsen indoor air quality.
The guidance is from the World Health Organization.
