Health Advisory Issued for Unhealthy Air Quality in Siskiyou County

Due to wildfire activity in the region, Siskiyou County Public Health Director Shelly Davis, RN-PHN, and County Health Officer Dr. Donald E. Solus, MD, have issued a health advisory related to smoke and declining air quality.

Your health and safety remain our top priority. As wildfire smoke continues to impact air quality throughout the county, we urge all residents to stay informed and take action to protect themselves and their families—especially vulnerable groups such as children, older adults, and those with respiratory or heart conditions.

Although not all areas are currently experiencing unhealthy conditions, smoke levels can change rapidly. When the Air Quality Index (AQI) rises above 150, air is considered unhealthy, and precautions should be taken.

Recommended Safety Measures:

• Stay indoors as much as possible with windows and doors closed.
• Use air conditioning with the fresh-air intake closed. If possible, use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity and adjust outdoor plans accordingly.
• Do not use swamp coolers, whole house fans, candles, fireplaces, gas stoves, or other sources of indoor pollution.
• Avoid vacuuming and smoking indoors, as these increase indoor pollutants.
• Wear a properly fitted N-95 mask if you must be outside for extended periods.
• Stay hydrated and use cooling methods such as cold compresses or cool showers, especially if you do not have air conditioning.

Stay Informed:

• AirNow Fire and Smoke Map
• Siskiyou County Air Pollution Control District

If you have questions or concerns, please contact Siskiyou County Public Health at (530) 841-2134 or phinfo@co.siskiyou.ca.us.