Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense, filling the air with harmful smoke that can travel for miles. For families with babies and expectant mothers, it's crucial to take extra precautions to protect their health. Fine particles in wildfire smoke can pose serious risks, especially to sensitive groups like infants and pregnant women.
Here are essential tips to keep your family safe during wildfire season.

Assemble an Emergency Kit

Prepare a “go-bag” with essentials for each family member. Your Go Bag should be accessible in case of an emergency and should include:

• Important documents (such as IDs or insurance) in a waterproof folder or container.
• Water (You should have 1 gallon per person per day, for at least 3 days) + non-perishable snacks
• N95 masks to protect against smoke inhalation
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medication + list of medical needs
• Portable phone charger
• If you’re pregnant, consider adding prenatal vitamins, extra clothing, and emergency contact numbers.

If you don’t know where to start, first responders always refer to the “6 P’s” rule – a simple way to remember what matters most when it’s time to evacuate.

• People & Pets: The absolute first priority
• Papers: Your personal documents and identification
• Prescriptions: Medication & supplies
• Pictures: Your irreplaceable memories
• Personal Computers: Hardware & data backups
• Payment: Credit cards and cash

While this list only covers the absolute basics, you may want to get specific items in your bag, depending on your region.

Create a Wildfire Emergency Plan

Have a plan in place to ensure everyone in your household knows what to do in case of a wildfire threatens your area. Don’t wait until the fire is close. Leave early to increase your safety and reduce the risk of being congested in traffic.

• Evacuation Routes: Identify routes from your home and community. Keep them updated and accessible. Decide on a safe location where your family can reunite if you get separated.
• Prepare your home: If you have time, close all windows and doors, remove flammable curtains, and turn off gas or propane.

Stay Informed

Staying updated on the latest information can save lives.

• Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to local emergency notifications or apps that provide real-time updates as they occur.
• Monitor Air Quality: Keep track of smoke levels and limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor. Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) on your phone’s weather app, or use airnow.gov. An AQI higher than 150 is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, which does include pregnant women and young children.
  If you must go outside, it’s important to wear a proper mask. A cloth mask or surgical mask won’t protect against wildfire smoke. Choose a N95 or KN95 mask, which can filter out fine particles.
• Listen to Authorities: Follow evacuation orders promptly and adhere to safety guidelines.

Special Considerations for Pregnant Women

Pregnancy naturally puts additional stress on the lungs and heart, which means it’s extra important to minimize exposure to wildfire smoke to ensure a safer and healthier pregnancy.

• Limit outdoor exposure: If you must go outside, wear a N95 mask.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.
• Consult with your doctor and have a prenatal care plan in place, especially if you live in a region where wildfires are common.

Protect Young Children from Wildfire Smoke

The lungs of infants and kids are still developing and aren’t as strong as an adult, making them more vulnerable to poor air quality. Keep kids indoors as much as possible when air quality is poor.

• For children over 2, use a KN95 mask if you must go outside. Make sure their nose and mouth are securely covered by the mask.
• Wash hands, face, and clothing to remove harmful particles after being outdoors or returning home after a wildfire. This will help protect against ash and debris.
• Keep medication on hand if your child has asthma or another condition. If your child’s symptoms escalate, seek medical attention immediately. The signs of worsening symptoms can include persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or increased use of inhalers.

Be Prepared, Stay Safe

Wildfire season poses significant health risks, but being proactive can make all the difference. By assembling an emergency kit, creating a solid evacuation plan, and using gentle, protective products for sensitive skin, you can safeguard your family—especially your baby and yourself during pregnancy—from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke.

Prioritize your family’s health and safety with thoughtful preparation and care.

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