Air Quality Tips, Two Fires Trigger State Response

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  State Fire Marshal’s Office issued air quality awareness guidance on July 13, 2026“Air Quality Awareness — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:22:48 +0000 July 13, 2026 Olympia – Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to a range of health issues, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The toxic gases and fine particles in smoke can exacerbate asthma, cause respiratory infections, and lead to other serious health problems. During wildfire season, be sure to check air quality before engaging in outdoor activities, especially if you are sensitive to pollutants and irritants. Check out resources such as the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map to get a real-time look at air quality in your area. The State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the following tips: Use air filters in your home to ensure a safe space for respite from outside smoke. When outside, use a respirator to filter out smoke from the air. Pay attention to your health, and watch for symptoms of unsafe exposure such as wheezing, coughing, dizziness, headache, or shortness of breath. Keep track of fires near you so that you can adequately prepare yourself for potential air quality events. For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3904 . ### Release sent by Deputy State Fire Marshal Courtney Chambers The post Air Quality Awareness appeared first on Washington State Patrol . Source: https://wsp.wa.gov/air-quality-awareness/”
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  State Fire Marshal’s Office warned residents about health risks from wildfire smoke“Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to a range of health issues, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The toxic gases and fine particles in smoke can exacerbate asthma, cause respiratory infections, and lead to other serious health problems. During wildfire season, be sure to check air quality before engaging in outdoor activities, especially if you are sensitive to pollutants and irritants. Check out resources such as the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map to get a real-time look at air quality in your area. The State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the following tips: Use air filters in your home to ensure a safe space for respite from outside smoke. When outside, use a respirator to filter out smoke from the air. Pay attention to your health, and watch for symptoms of unsafe exposure such as wheezing, coughing, dizziness, headache, or shortness of breath. Keep track of fires near you so that you can adequately prepare yourself for potential air quality events. For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3904 . ### Release sent by Deputy State Fire Marshal Courtney Chambers The post Air Quality Awareness appeared first on Washington State Patrol .”
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  State Fire Marshal’s Office guidance recommends using air filters at home“Use air filters in your home to ensure a safe space for respite from outside smoke.”
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  State Fire Marshal’s Office guidance recommends wearing respirators outdoors“When outside, use a respirator to filter out smoke from the air.”
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  State Fire Marshal’s Office guidance recommends monitoring for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath“Pay attention to your health, and watch for symptoms of unsafe exposure such as wheezing, coughing, dizziness, headache, or shortness of breath.”
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  Two wildfires prompted state fire mobilization on July 8-9, 2026No usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The B and O Fire, burning near Okanogan, reached 2,000 acres“This fire is estimated at 2,000 acres and growing.”
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  The B and O Fire triggered Level 2 and 3 evacuations“Level 2 and Level 3 evacuations are in effect at this time.”
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  The Ryegrass Coulee Fire, near Vantage, grew to 600 acres“This fire is estimated at 600 acres and growing.”
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  The Ryegrass Coulee Fire activated evacuations“Level 2 and Level 3 evacuations are in effect at this time.”
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  State resources, including five wildland strike teams, were deployed to assist local crews“Mobilization specialists from the Fire Protection Bureau have ordered five wildland strike teams to aid in containment efforts.”