Wildfires
Over the last few decades, the United States has experienced an increase in wildfire season length, wildfire frequency, and burned area. Although wildfires occur naturally and play a long-term role in the health of these ecosystems, changing wildfire patterns present challenges for communities across the country. To try to reduce some detrimental impacts of wildfire, there has been an increase in prescribed fires (or planned fire) to reduce the fuel available for wildfires to burn.
EPA has been at the forefront of research to understand the impacts of wildland fire, both wildfire and prescribed, on the environment and public health, and efforts to ensure individuals and communities can prepare for, respond to, and recover from wildland fires.
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Wildland Fires and Public Health Effects
Learn about the types of wildland fire and the associated effects of wildland fire and smoke on public health.
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Take Action on Wildland Fires and Smoke
Learn what to do at each stage of a wildland fire to keep you and your loved ones safe.
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Wildland Fire Work at EPA
Learn about EPA’s research and programs focused on understanding and protecting public health and the environment from wildland fire.
Wildland Fire Resources
- AirNow Wildfires: Resources about air quality and wildfire smoke, including the AirNow Fire & Smoke Map, guides for public health officials, and recommendations about how to stay safer before, during, and after fires.
- Learn About Wildfires and Indoor Air Quality: Information about wildfires and indoor air quality.
- Wildfire Fire Resource Directory: A searchable directory of wildland fire resources, including factsheets, webinars, and guides.