Living with Wildfire Smoke
August 20th, 2026Written by Kelsey Stalker
Photo of the sun behind smoke from the 2018 Camp Fire. Credit: Hayden Wilkinson
When we live in fire adapted ecosystems, living with smoke is an unfortunate reality. Understanding the risks of smoke and knowing how to protect ourselves can help us stay healthy and prepared.
Wildfire can burn forests and the built environment, releasing hazardous particulates that pose health risks to those exposed. Smoke can severely impact people with underlying health conditions, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations. Seeing or smelling smoke can also trigger stress, anxiety, and even PTSD.
Thankfully, there are easy things we can do to take care of ourselves and our loved ones. Checking air quality maps for your area can help you understand current conditions, inform you of the level of risk, and monitoring smoke projections can give you an idea of what to expect in the coming days. Purple Air, AirNow.gov, and the Tahoe Smoke Map are a few trusted sources for real-time smoke updates.
If the AQI (air quality index) is moderate or higher, limiting your exposure by wearing an N95 respirator, staying indoors, and filtering air when possible, can all help. For extended periods indoors, books, games, cards, and fun or challenging activities can help keep the mind and body engaged. Drinking plenty of water and using eyedrops also ensures you stay hydrated and comfortable during these periods.
Smoke can also be a sign that fire conditions are changing, and evacuation may become necessary. Sign up for emergency alerts through your county and consider using tools like Watch Duty to monitor fire conditions. Keep your evacuation go-bag ready, including N95 masks and water, so you are able to stay safe if evacuated.
While smoke can cause negative health impacts and linger longer than we’d like it to, wildfires end and the smoke clears. Building resiliency in wildfire ecosystems means taking care of ourselves alongside the forests and communities we call home. Being engaged, informed, and prepared helps us all become better fire adapted stewards.
Learn more about preparing for wildfire at Tahoelivingwithfire.com.
Explore smoke safety resources
Living with Smoke | Tahoe Living With Fire
Wildfire Smoke and Health | Tahoe Forest Health System