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HELENA—The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued air quality alerts for this weekend in the following counties: Beaverhead, Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Mineral, Missoula, Ravalli and Sanders County. Smoke from wildfires burning in California, Idaho, Oregon and Western Montana will bring smoke into the state that will likely impact air quality in Montana.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to check air quality regularly and follow the guidelines associated with the air quality levels. Where air monitors aren’t present, use visibility guidelines to estimate air quality. To check air quality visit: todaysair.mtdeq.us

Exposure to wildfire pollutants can irritate the lungs, cause inflammation, alter immune function and increase susceptibility to respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Populations known to be most vulnerable to wildfire smoke exposure include children, senior citizens, pregnant people, people with chronic health conditions such as heart or lung disease—including asthma and diabetes—and outdoor workers. Other factors that may contribute to increased vulnerability include homelessness and limited access to medical care. Respiratory symptoms such as dry cough, sore throat and difficulty breathing are common to both wildfire smoke exposure and COVID-19. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or chest pain, you should seek prompt medical attention by calling 911 or calling ahead to the nearest emergency facility.

When air quality is unhealthy, state agencies encourage Montanans and visitors to consider the following tips to protect their health: