Air Quality

Montana experiences impacts of summer wildfire smoke and winter inversions that trap air pollutants from wood burning stoves, vehicles, and other pollution sources. Montana residents can take steps to mitigate the effect of poor air quality on their health and daily routines. These steps begin with speaking to a health care provider about your individual health risk and learning strategies to avoid unhealthy outdoor air and improve indoor air quality. 

June 7-13 is Montana Wildfire Smoke Preparedness Week!

Wildfire smoke can affect communities across Montana, even when fires are burning far away. During Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week, residents are encouraged to take simple steps now to protect their health before smoky conditions arrive. Learn how to monitor air quality, create a cleaner indoor air space, identify local clean air resource centers, and prepare your home and family for wildfire season. Throughout the week, communities across Montana will host events and educational activities, including the 2026 Wildfire and Smoke Outlook Forum in Kalispell, MT on June 9th, and a hands-on opportunity to learn about low-cost DIY air cleaners with the Butte Silver Health Departmentt. Visit the resources below to find practical tools, preparedness information, and guidance to help you stay smoke ready all summer long.

Be informed. Be prepared. Be Smoke Ready.