Medford, Oregon – From southern California to western Washington, West Coast residents are being urged to prepare for harmful wildfire smoke as fire season gains momentum this Summer. While the focus often falls on flames and evacuations, officials stress that smoke exposure remains a major health concern across California, Oregon, and Washington.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, wildfire smoke can irritate eyes, aggravate lungs, and worsen chronic respiratory conditions. With May recognized as Wildfire Awareness Month, residents are encouraged to take steps now to protect the air inside their homes.
Key recommendations include sealing gaps around windows and doors, replacing HVAC filters with models that trap fine particulates, and using HEPA filters to create “clean air rooms.” Officials also advise checking that air conditioning systems are working properly and identifying local public spaces with filtered air, such as malls and libraries.
Smoke events have become more frequent and prolonged in recent fire seasons, with cities like Sacramento, Portland, and Seattle all experiencing days of hazardous air quality.
Officials warn that more alerts are likely through the summer. Preparing homes and locating clean air shelters now can help reduce health risks as wildfire season intensifies across the region.
