Widener Agency · Oregon family resource
Wildfire Smoke Readiness Checklist
Prepare a cleaner-air room, filtration, medications, and reliable Oregon air-quality sources before smoke arrives.Before smoke season
- Choose a room that can be closed off from the rest of the home as a cleaner-air room.
- Check the HVAC manual and ask a qualified professional which efficient filter the system can safely handle.
- Size a portable HEPA air cleaner for the room where it will be used.
- If using an official DIY box-fan filter design, gather the correct fan, filter, and safety instructions in advance.
- Have more than five days of necessary medication when possible and follow written care plans.
- Bookmark LRAPA, OregonAir, Oregon Smoke Information, and AirNow.
When smoke arrives
- Follow current AQI and public-health guidance; conditions can change quickly.
- Close windows and doors when outdoor air is smoky and use the cleaner-air room.
- Run appropriate filtration and avoid smoking, candles, frying, and other unnecessary indoor particle sources.
- Set the vehicle ventilation to recirculate while driving through smoke.
- Reduce outdoor exertion and follow school, daycare, and local health guidance for children.
- Use a properly fitted NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 when recommended; cloth and surgical masks do not filter smoke particles effectively.
Health planning
- People with heart or lung conditions should follow their treatment plan and contact a health professional if symptoms worsen.
- Plan cleaner-air alternatives for children, older adults, pregnant people, outdoor workers, and others more affected by smoke.
- Call 911 for a medical emergency. This checklist is not medical advice.