CS-CASH: Protect lung, eye health during wildfires and post‑fire cleanup

OMAHA, Nebraska - As multiple large wildfires continue to burn across central and western Nebraska, resulting in hundreds of thousands of acres burned and hazardous air quality in affected regions, the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS‑CASH) at the University of Nebraska Medical Center is urging residents, agricultural workers and cleanup crews to take steps to protect their lungs, eyes, skin and overall health during wildfire response and recovery efforts.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of coughing, shortness of breath, asthma, bronchitis and cardiovascular complications. Exposure risks remain high not only during active fires but also during cleanup activities when ash and debris are disturbed.

“Wildfire smoke and ash pose serious risks to lung and eye health, especially for people working outdoors or involved in cleanup,” said Ellen Duysen, research assistant professor with CS‑CASH. “Taking precautions such as wearing a properly fitted N95 respirator, limiting physical exertion when air quality is poor, and taking breaks in clean, filtered air can significantly reduce harmful lung exposure.”

CS‑CASH recommends that individuals who must work outside during smoky conditions monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and take additional protective measures when air quality reaches unhealthy levels. The AQI in your area can be found at www.AirNow.gov. The minimum recommended level of respiratory protection is a NIOSH‑approved N95 respirator, which filters out fine particles found in wildfire smoke and ash. Cloth masks and single‑strap face coverings do not provide adequate protection.

In addition to respiratory protection, CS‑CASH advises wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during post‑fire cleanup, including:

-Safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes from ash and debris
-Nitrile or work gloves to prevent skin contact with contaminants
-Long sleeves and durable clothing to reduce skin irritation
-Frequent handwashing or use of sanitizing wipes after handling debris.
 
“Cleanup following a wildfire can be just as hazardous as the fire itself,” said Aaron Yoder, PhD, associate professor in the UNMC College of Public Health. “Ash can easily become airborne when sweeping, digging or repairing fences and buildings. Using proper PPE and wetting down ash before cleanup are simple steps that can greatly reduce inhalation risks and protect long‑term lung health.”

CS‑CASH has developed free, publicly available wildfire safety resources, including fact sheets on wildfire smoke exposure, lung protection, respirator use, and recovery safety, available on the CS‑CASH website.

Residents in affected areas are encouraged to:

-Stay informed through local emergency management and air quality updates
-Avoid outdoor activity when smoke levels are high
-Use appropriate respiratory and eye protection during cleanup
-Seek medical care if experiencing breathing difficulties or persistent symptoms
 
For wildfire safety resources, visit:
-CS-CASH website
-Nebraska Extension Disaster Education Network