Yellow fire flames on natural wood

Wildfire Smoke Preparedness

Air Quality Guidance for Child Care

Severe wildfire smoke events have become a regular part of an Oregon summer here in Lane County. Breathing smoke and harmful toxins can add up, even if just for a few days each year, especially for young children. 

This guide, created by Lane County Public Health and Lane Regional Air Protection Agency, provides action steps based on the air quality index, referred to as “AQI.” Staff should always reference EPA’s AirNow at fire.airnow.gov for the AQI. Reference the closest ‘permanent monitor’ (large circle) for the most accurate government certified AQI.

Air Quality Guidance for Childcare/Daycare Providers

Guía para usar el Índice de Calidad del Aire (AQI) para Proveedores de Cuidado Infantil/Guarderías

 

Upcoming Events with Quality Care Connections

Smoke Ready Child Care Community of Practice

Join a Community of Practice for Child Care & Early Education Program Leaders to create or further develop your program practices to ensure safety of children on poor air quality days. 

Spring/Summer 2026

Application

Community Conversation: Wildfire Smoke Preparedness

Learn about resources for wildfire smoke preparedness and join the conversation on preparing child care spaces with clean air practices. FREE Set 1 ORO Hours Provided. HYBRID. Spanish Interpretation Provided.

Monday, May 4th 6-7:30 pm

Register Here

Smoke Ready Workshop

Local experts will present about impact, prevention, and practices relating to wildfire smoke exposure with children. FREE Set 1 ORO Hours Provided. ZOOM. Spanish Interpretation Provided.

Tuesday, June 2nd 6-8:00 pm

Register Here

Wildfire Smoke Preparedness

How can you be Wildfire Smoke Ready? Use the following resources to prepare your program with practices to track, respond to, and teach about wildfire smoke when working with young children.