Wildfires occur year-round in Southern California. The health
effects of wildfire smoke range from eye, throat and respiratory
tract irritation to more serious disorders, including reduced lung
function, bronchitis, exacerbation of asthma, and premature death.
Wildfire smoke can affect healthy people as well as those with
pre-existing lung or heart disease. Children and the elderly
are especially sensitive to the effects of wildfire smoke.
During wildfires, there are measures everyone can take to protect
their health from the harmful pollutants filling the air. The
following fact sheets contain some tips that you can follow to
protect you and your family members from unhealthful air.