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Introduction

Wildfires have a significant impact on air quality in Washington. The smoke from wildfires can contain a variety of harmful pollutants, including particulate matter (PM), ozone, and carbon monoxide. These pollutants can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory irritation, heart disease, and cancer.

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Background Information

The impact of wildfires on air quality can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size and location of the fire, the weather conditions, and the type of vegetation that is burning. In general, larger fires that burn in dry, hot weather will produce more smoke and have a greater impact on air quality.

Impact on Air Quality

The smoke from wildfires can travel long distances, so even people who live far from a fire can be affected by the poor air quality. In 2020, for example, smoke from wildfires in California and Oregon drifted into Washington, causing poor air quality in many parts of the state.

Protecting Yourself from the Health Effects

There are a number of things that people can do to protect themselves from the health effects of wildfire smoke. These include:

* Staying indoors as much as possible when the air quality is poor.

* If you must go outside, wear a mask that can filter out small particles.

* Avoid strenuous activity when the air quality is poor.

* Monitor the air quality and stay informed about the latest advisories from public health officials.

Conclusion

Wildfires are a natural part of the environment, but they are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. As a result, it is important to be aware of the impact of wildfires on air quality and to take steps to protect yourself from the health effects.