Seasonal Hazards: Wildfire & Smoke

Smoke over mountains

In Crook County and the greater Central Oregon area, fire season begins in mid-May and usually ends in late September. Wildfire smoke can impact all residents in Crook County. Prescribed (controlled) burning that occurs in the Spring and Fall helps reduce the risk of out-of-control wildfire but can also produce smoke impacts. Socioeconomic factors such as income, age, access to transportation, and more can increase the risk of negative health impacts caused by wildfire smoke.

Those who are at an elevated risk of smoke-related illness

Individuals with heart or lung disease, such as
  • Congestive heart failure
  • Angina
  • COPD
  • Emphysema
  • Asthma
Older adults 
  • Who are also at an increased risk of heart and lung diseases than younger people.

Children
  • Their airways are still developing, and they breathe more air per pound of body weight than adults.
  • Children are also more likely to be active outdoors.
People who are pregnant
  • Due to changes in their bodies during pregnancy.

  • Smoke pollution can have effects on the fetus.

Responders such as Wildland firefighters.

Smoke-related Illnesses: Signs & Symptoms

Breathing in smoke can immediately affect you. Symptoms may include:
  • Stinging, irritated, and red eyes 
  • Trouble breathing
  • Asthma attacks
  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Scratchy throat
  • Chest pain
  • Headaches
  • Runny nose
Recommendations for people with chronic diseases
  • Have enough medication (up to five days) in case of an emergency.
  • Asthmatic individuals may need to write up an asthma management plan.
  • Those with heart disease may want to check in with healthcare providers about precautions to take during smoke events.
  • Purchase and use a portable air cleaner for indoor spaces.
    • High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter
    • Electrostatic precipitator (ESP)
    • Box Fan Filter
Recommendations For Everyone
  • Monitor local air quality reports. Know where to locate them and watch for news and health alert warnings about smoke events.
    •  Check the EPA’s Air Quality Index (AQI)
  • Wear a N95 respirator that fits snugly to the face when outdoors during a smoke event or in indoor spaces with air pollution.
  • Refrain from burning candles, using gas or propane, wood burning stoves or fireplaces, and aerosol sprays. Additionally, do not broil or fry meat, smoke tobacco products, or vacuum.

>>Click here to see Air Quality in Prineville<<

 


Wildfire Evacuation

 

Sign up for emergency alerts to receive notifications about evacuation orders and updates by visiting Alert Crook County. Questions should be directed to info@alertcrookcounty.org.

Create an emergency plan that includes routes for evacuation, plans for family communication and reunification, and considerations for pets.

Have a go bag ready with essential health and safety supplies as well as important forms of identification. Keep supplies in your vehicle or in a place that is easily accessible.

Oregon has a three-level evacuation notification system. Know the level in your area and what each level means so that you can make the best decision to stay safe.

Level 1: BE READY
  • For potential evacuation. Residents should be aware of the danger that exists in their area, monitor emergency services websites, and local media outlets for information. Use this time for preparing and taking precautionary measures. Consider your pets, individuals with additional support needs, and your property.

Level 2: BE SET
  • To evacuate and be prepared to leave at a moment’s notice. This level means there is significant danger to your area. Consider voluntarily relocating to a shelter or with family or friends outside of the affected area. This may be the only alert you receive if conditions quickly deteriorate and there may be minimal time to grab necessary items for evacuation if you aren’t already prepared.
Level 3: GO!
  • Evacuate immediately. Danger to your area is current or imminent. If you choose to ignore this advisory, emergency services may not be able to help you any further. There may not be time to delay evacuation by grabbing belongings or making last minute efforts to protect your home. This will be the final notice received.

 


Where to find additional resources

Wildfire Updates | Air Quality | Central Oregon Fire Information

A source for comprehensive fire, health, and air quality information in Central Oregon.

  • Receive fire status updates
  • View the Crook County Emergency Information Map
  • Learn how to protect your health from wildfire smoke impacts
  • Know what fire restrictions exist in your area