Prescribed Fire, Smoke and Healthā:
Interim Recommendations for Local Health Jurisdictions
ā*Note: The California Department of Public Health looks forward to feedback from local jurisdictions and other partners on these recommendations.ā To submit feedback or questions about this guide, email CCHU@cdph.ca.govā. Updates will be made to this guide based on feedback.
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Prescribed fire is the controlled use of fire to reduce wildfire hazards, improve land management, and restore natural ecosystems. While prescribed fire produces smoke that can affect health, it is a key tool in preventing catastrophic wildfires. Prescribed fire is carefully planned to reduce health and environmental impacts, in contrast to the dense, long-lasting smoke from uncontrolled wildfires.
Prescribed fireā planners, air quality managers, and public health professionals can work together to reduce smoke exposure to vulnerable populations and mitigate impacts. Local health departments can get involved in planning and outreach efforts to notify communities when prescribed burns are planned and to raise awareness about prescribed fire, smoke and health.
Visit Prescribed Fire, Smoke and Healthā | CDPHā for basics on prescribed fire.
Visit Wildfires | CDPH Center for Preparedness and Response for emergency-related wildfire resources.āāā