Panel: Wildfires and Smoke Ready Communities
Speakers
Sarah Sullivant, USEPA
Mary-Clare Hano, USEPA
James Payne, USEPA
Kelley Xuereb, USEPA
Abstract
Longer and more severe wildfire seasons are exposing millions to unhealthy levels of wildfire smoke, with implications for physical health, mental health, and quality of life. This 1-hour session provides information and tools tribal environmental departments can use to help their communities be “Smoke Ready.” Being Smoke Ready means a community that is prepared to reduce health risks from smoke before a wildfire. The session will include an overview of the health effects of smoke, vulnerable populations (such as children and elders), ideas and tools to help your community be Smoke Ready, and templates and advice for incorporating “Smoke Ready” plans into your GAP and CAA work plans. Participants will also have an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback on existing wildfire smoke tools.
Session Outcomes
- Outcome 1: Understand the importance of preparing their communities for wildfires and wildfire smoke before there is an emergency
- Outcome 2: Begin to develop a smoke ready action plan
- Outcome 3: Incorporate wildfire preparedness activities into GAP and CAA work plans
Topics
Air, Climate Change, Disaster Preparedness
Keywords
Wildfires, Disaster Preparedness, Air Quality
Level of Expertise
N/A
Video
Tribal EPA Region 9 Conference Youtube Channel Playlists:
2021 Tribal EPA Region 9 Conference
2020 Tribal EPA Region 9 Conference