08/21/2026
AK-CHIN INDIAN COMMUNITY
AIR QUALITY & FIRE/SMOKE HEALTH ALERT
PROTECT YOUR HEALTH
Smoke from the nearby fire can cause unhealthy air conditions and may contain fine particles (PM2.5) that can pe*****te deep into the lungs. Smoke exposure can cause coughing, throat and eye irritation, difficulty breathing, headaches, and can aggravate asthma, heart disease, and other respiratory conditions.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
• Limit outdoor activity when smoke is visible, smells strong.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities such as running, exercising, mowing, or other heavy work when smoke levels are elevated.
• Keep windows and doors closed when smoke is present.
• If you have central air conditioning, set the system to recirculate if possible. (after the fire and smoke is clear, AC filters should be immediately replaced)
• If you must be outside during smoky conditions, consider wearing a properly fitted N95 mask. Cloth face coverings do not provide the same protection from wildfire smoke.
• Do not add additional smoke indoors. Avoid candles, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, smoking, and activities that generate excessive particles.
• Avoid vacuuming and heavy dusting during heavy smoke conditions because it can stir particles back into the air.
• Check on children, elders, and individuals with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions. These groups can be more vulnerable to smoke exposure.
• Stay hydrated.
WHO SHOULD TAKE EXTRA PRECAUTIONS?
People at greater risk from wildfire smoke include:
Children • Older Adults • People with Asthma or Lung Disease • People with Heart Disease • Outdoor Workers • Pregnant Women
If you experience significant difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe dizziness, or other serious symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
BE PREPARED
During periods of heavy smoke:
STAY INSIDE • KEEP AIR CLEAN • LIMIT OUTDOOR ACTIVITY • CHECK ON VULNERABLE FAMILY MEMBERS
The Ak-Chin Indian Community Environmental Programs will continue to monitor air quality and fire/smoke conditions and provide updates as information becomes available.
Please take care of yourself, your family, elders, and neighbors.