Wildfire smoke is a complex mixture of gases. As a wildfire burns, different compounds are released in the smoke, such as carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, and particulate matter PM.
The toxicity of wildfire smoke can change very quickly depending on factors in the wildfire environment, such as weather, fire behavior, and the type of vegetation burning.
Because of this, wildfire smoke exposure can be hazardous for anyone, including outdoor workers. Outdoor workers in the Pacific Northwest can have different individual risk factors such as age and health conditions e. Some health effects known or suspected to be caused by wildfire smoke include:. Recent PNASH studies have explored how we can better understand the burden, need, and impact of wildfire smoke on agricultural workers:.
English Spanish. Resources Requirements. Fire and Smoke Map. Smoke Ready Toolbox Smoke Sense. Fire Adapted Toolkit Learning Network. Provides information on air quality, smoke health effects, and tips to reduce smoke exposure. This game introduces the science of climate change.
University of Washington. What is wildfire smoke? How can wildfire smoke affect an outdoor worker's health? The resources below are designed to help employers and workers practice wildfire smoke safety. Learn More. Download now.
