The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has updated Wildfire Smoke: A Guide for Public Health Officials. The guide, originally created in 2002 with periodic updates from the EPA and partners, ensures that state, local, and Tribal public health officials have current, reliable information. Although developed for public health officials, the information in this document could be useful to many other groups, including health professionals, air quality officials, and members of the public.
The 2026 edition includes:
- Updated recommendations for public health preparedness before smoke events.
- Improved communication tools for sharing health messages during smoke impacts.
- Guidance on indoor air quality protections, including portable air cleaners and DIY air cleaners.
- Revised information on masks, clean room strategies, and protecting sensitive groups.
- New and updated fact sheets to support fast, clear communication.