Sobre la calidad del aire

Prescribed Burning, Smoke, and Health

New

Learn about the air quality impacts of prescribed burns.

New 13/10/2026

Prescribed burns are planned and conducted to limit smoke impacts on populated areas. However, smoke from prescribed burns can temporarily affect air quality in nearby communities. Smoke from any wildland fire contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other harmful pollutants that can irritate the eyes and airways and worsen heart and lung conditions, among other health impacts. PM2.5 refers to fine particles with diameters of 2.5 micrometers or smaller and is of specific concern since fine particles can travel deep into the lungs and even the bloodstream.

How much someone is affected by smoke depends on the amount of smoke present, how long they are exposed, their level of physical activity, and their individual health and sensitivity. Some populations may be particularly susceptible to smoke, including older adults, pregnant people, children, individuals with respiratory or heart conditions, and persons who work, exercise, or spend extended periods outdoors.

Actions to Reduce Smoke Exposure

  • Check current air quality conditions via the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map or the Air District’s Current Air Quality Conditions webpage.
  • Limit or reschedule outdoor activity when air quality is unhealthy or if smoke is present
  • Keep smoke out by closing windows, if temperatures allow, and running an air conditioner or air purifier if you have one, and if driving, keep windows closed and set the ventilation system to recirculate.
  • Avoid adding pollution indoors by skipping candles, wood-burning fireplaces, and smoking.
  • Identify a clean air space with filtered air in your community, such as indoor shopping malls, libraries, cooling centers, community centers, and local government buildings.

Masks are not a substitute for staying indoors and may provide a false sense of security. Many masks do little to protect against wildfire smoke. If you do not have a clean air space at home and are unable to visit a cleaner air center, or must be outdoors for extended periods, you may benefit from using a properly fitted N95 mask to reduce smoke exposure. N95 masks are not currently approved for children.

For More Air Quality and Health Information

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Asistencia para el Cumplimiento

415 749 4999 compliance@baaqmd.gov


Información general de comunicaciones

(415) 749-4900

Meteorology Desk

415.749.4915 forecast@baaqmd.gov

Open Burn Notifications

415.749.4600 openburn@baaqmd.gov

Open Burn Status

800.792.0787

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1-800-334-ODOR

(800) 334-6367

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Last Updated: 19/10/2026