Wildfires and Smoke

gatorsafe_icon_web_WILDFIRESANDSMOKEWildfires in Florida can occur at all times of the year. On average, Florida experiences the second highest number of wildfires in the nation. Large wildfires can produce smoke and impact air quality across a wide area, including the UF campus.

What to Know

The Alachua County Health Department normally issues public health warnings, such as respiratory alerts, if smoke from wildfires becomes a significant health concern for the area.

What to Do

Below are tips to follow if smoke from wildfires becomes a concern:

  • Stay indoors. Choose indoor options when air pollution levels are unhealthful. Keep your windows and doors closed.
  • Reduce outdoor activity. Reducing your physical activity in outdoor areas lowers the amount of polluted air your body intakes. Curtail your involvement in outdoor activities and events that require prolonged exposure and strenuous exercise or sports participation.
  • If you suffer from a heart or lung ailment, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she can advise you on treatment or whether and when you should leave the area. Call your healthcare provider immediately if your condition worsens.
  • Stay alert. Listen to local news and weather forecasts and air quality alerts provided. If the air quality in your area worsens, take necessary precautions and plan your activities accordingly.

Get More Info

Wildfire information from Florida Hazardous Weather Guide

Wildfire Information Page from the Florida Forest Service

Air Quality Monitoring Map for Alachua County from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Smoke and Air Quality Page from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Fire Weather Page from National Weather Service-Jacksonville

Fire & Smoke Health Concerns FAQ presentation by Florida Department of Health/Division of Environmental Health (DOC)