OLYMPIA, WA — With dry summer conditions and increased wildfire risks on the horizon, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), along with the National Weather Service and regional partners, will launch Smoke Ready Week starting Monday, June 9.
This annual public awareness campaign is designed to help residents across Washington prepare for wildfire smoke season, which is expected to be more severe than usual due to ongoing drought conditions in many parts of the state.
“Wildfire smoke is one of the biggest health threats during summer,” the DOH stated. The fine particles in smoke can aggravate the lungs, nose, and throat, and pose particular dangers to children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.
Each day of Smoke Ready Week will focus on a different preparedness theme:
- Monday, June 9 – Stay Informed
- Tuesday, June 10 – Minimize Exposure
- Wednesday, June 11 – Optimize Your Air
- Thursday, June 12 – Keep a Plan
- Friday, June 13 – Ease Your Mind
The DOH is encouraging residents to visit its Smoke from Fires webpage for resources including how to select an air cleaner, create a DIY box fan filter, and prepare homes for prolonged smoke exposure.
For updates and daily tips, follow the Washington State Department of Health on social media.
