DEQ Smoke Forecasting

Smoke Blog and DEQ Social Media

You already know (or do if you've been a visitor here before) that when the smoke hits Idaho, we post a daily smoke forecast. But did you know that we also put that information on our DEQ social media channels, too? Look for us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. When smoke rolls in, check this blog, our Facebook page, or Twitter feed daily to protect yourself from smoke impacts. 

If you're new here, or need a refresher, watch this video for how to use this blog during wildfire season.

For more resources, click here. 

Minimize Your Smoke Exposure

 Strategies to Minimize Smoke Exposure

The best way to protect you and your family during smoke events is to stay indoors and keep the indoor air as clean as possible by closing windows and doors and filtering your indoor air. Watch the video to see how you can make yourself an air cleaner with a box fan and some high-efficiency rated filters (one of our amazing regional staff members will show you how). If you’re planning to be outside when the air is unhealthy, be sure to check with your health care provider on the use of N95 respirators.

For more resources, click here.

How to Check Air Quality and Find Smoke Information

Use Reliable Sources for Air Quality Information

Smoke can move into your area quickly. Check the air quality often and use reliable sources like EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map, DEQ’s Real-Time Monitoring Map, or the Air Idaho app. 

For more resources click here.

Smoke and Your Health

Smoke Is Harmful!

Smoke is harmful to your health! Mild symptoms include irritation of your eyes, nose and throat. If you’ve got heart or lung disease, check with your health care provider for ways you can protect yourself! 

Download the Air Idaho app from Google Play or the Apple Store so you can have easy access to air quality information wherever you are!  

For more resources click here.

Smoke Particles Travel Far!

Smoke Can Travel Thousands of Miles

Did you know wildfire smoke contains tiny harmful particles many times smaller than a single strand of hair?! Or that smoke can travel thousands of miles from a wildfire to your lungs? Particles in smoke from any fire – near or far- are dangerous to your health. Check air quality daily and take steps to protect yourself from smoke impacts! 

Check the EPA Smoke Ready Toolbox For Wildfires for more information and check here for more air quality and smoke resources.

Smoke Ready Week on the Horizon!

Smoke Ready Week is Coming!

Next week is Smoke Ready Week in Idaho and we’re teaming up with Idaho Health and Welfare to help you get ready for smoke impacts from wildfires. Follow along as we talk about smoke, air quality, and actions you can take to be aware and prepared! Watch the world premiere of “The Toxic Office” now!

For more air quality and wildfire smoke resources, click here.