Wildfires and Mask Use
A Resource for Families
Wildfire season is growing and wildfires are becoming more severe and frequent because of climate change. Using appropriate masks correctly is an important way for families to mitigate the health effects of wildfire smoke when going outside. Families are encouraged to read the guidance below to help prevent or reduce exposure to wildfire smoke. This information can also help guide discussions with your child's pediatrician or with your regional Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit (PEHSU) staff.
Summary of Key Points posted on Jul 27, 2021
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General Information posted on Jul 27, 2021
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What are some different types of masks to use? posted on Jul 27, 2021
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What are some safety issues I should consider for my family? posted on Jul 27, 2021
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What should I do if I'm pregnant? posted on Jul 27, 2021
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What if there is a mask shortage? posted on Jul 27, 2021
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Key Words & Concepts posted on Jul 27, 2021
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Additional Resources for Families
CDC/ATSDR
- Wildfire Smoke|Wildfires (cdc.gov)
Details the symptoms of wildfire smoke inhalation and its adverse effects.
EPA
- Smoke-Ready Toolbox for Wildfires | US EPA
List of various resources from multiple sources on staying safe from wildfires and smoke.
HealthyChildren.org
- Wildfires: What Parents Need to Know - HealthyChildren.org
Information on preparing for and staying safe during and after a wildfire.
Regional PEHSU Websites
- New England Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit
Resources on protecting children from wildfire smoke. - Rocky Mountain Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit
PDF on preparing for and keeping your child safe during wildfires. - Western States Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit
List of resources on air quality and wildfire smoke. - Northwest Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit
List of resources on smoke and smoke readiness.
The Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units (PEHSUs) are supported by cooperative agreement FAIN: NU61TS000296 with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (CDC/ATSDR). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also provides support through Inter-Agency Agreement DW-75-95877701 with CDC/ATSDR. The American Academy of Pediatrics supports the PEHSUs as the National Program Office. The content on this website has not been formally disseminated by CDC/ATSDR or the EPA and should not be construed to represent any agency determination or policy. Use of trade names that may be mentioned is for identification only and does not imply endorsement by the CDC/ATSDR or EPA.
The information contained on this website should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your/your child’s primary care provider. There may be variations in treatment that your provider may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
Last updated: July 30, 2021