Wildfires are a growing natural hazard in most regions of the United States. They pose a threat to life and property, particularly where native ecosystems meet populated areas.

Sometimes the secondary effects of wildfires, including changes in air and water quality, are more damaging to health than the fire itself.

Wildfires expose people, especially children and those with lung problems, to a number of environmental hazards, including the byproducts of burning wood, plastics, and chemicals released from burning structures and furnishings.

The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has compiled this list of resources to help you protect yourself, your children, and your pets during and after a wildfire.

Any documents linked below are in pdf format.

General Information on Wildfires and Health

• Wildfires Fact Sheet (CDC)
• Forest Fires and Respiratory Health Fact Sheet (American Lung Association)
• How Smoke From Fires Can Affect Your Health (EPA)
• Particulate Matter (EPA)
• Steps to take before, during, and after a wildfire (S.C. EMD)
• Dioxin Information (EPA)

How Wildfires Affect the Health of Children

• Environmental Hazards for Children in the Aftermath of Wildfires (Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units and the American Academy of Pediatrics)
• Health Risks of Wildfires for Children: Acute Phase (Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Units and the American Academy of Pediatrics)

Protecting Your Pets in a Disaster

• American Veterinary Medical Association Disaster Preparedness (American Veterinary Medicine Association)
• AVMA Emergency Preparedness and Response Guide (American Veterinary Medical Association)
• Disaster Preparedness Resources - Barn Fires (The Humane Society of the United States)
• Protect Your Pets in An Emergency (CDC)

For Kids

• Be Informed About Wildfires (FEMA)
• Only You — Learning about Wildfires (Smokey Bear)

For Firefighters and Other Emergency Responders

• SC Wildfire Statistics (S.C. Forestry Commission)
• Especially for Emergency Responders (National Library of Medicine)
• Wildland Fire Chemicals (U.S. Forest Service)