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Air Quality Awareness, Fire Mobilizations

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Wildfire smoke health warnings and fire resource mobilizations are active in Washington state as of July 2026. The State Fire Marshal’s Office issued an air quality awareness alert on July 13, 2026, warning residents about health risks from wildfire smoke, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. The alert recommends using air filters at home and respirators when outside, and monitoring for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath. Two fires have prompted state fire mobilizations: the B and O Fire in Okanogan County, which started July 9 and covers 2,000 acres, and the Ryegrass Coulee Fire in Kittitas County, which began July 8 and spans 600 acres. Both fires are threatening homes and infrastructure, with Level 2 and 3 evacuations in place. State resources, including five wildland strike teams, are being deployed to assist local firefighters.

📄 Source: Washington State Patrol — https://wsp.wa.gov/
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    Wildfire smoke health warnings and fire resource mobilizations are active in Washington state as of July 2026.No usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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    The State Fire Marshal’s Office issued an air quality awareness alert on July 13, 2026.“Air Quality Awareness — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:22:48 +0000 July 13, 2026 Olympia – Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to a range of health issues, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. The toxic gases and fine particles in smoke can exacerbate asthma, cause respiratory infections, and lead to other serious health problems. During wildfire season, be sure to check air quality before engaging in outdoor activities, especially if you are sensitive to pollutants and irritants. Check out resources such as the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map to get a real-time look at air quality in your area. The State Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the following tips: Use air filters in your home to ensure a safe space for respite from outside smoke. When outside, use a respirator to filter out smoke from the air. Pay attention to your health, and watch for symptoms of unsafe exposure such as wheezing, coughing, dizziness, headache, or shortness of breath. Keep track of fires near you so that you can adequately prepare yourself for potential air quality events. For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3904 . ### Release sent by Deputy State Fire Marshal Courtney Chambers The post Air Quality Awareness appeared first on Washington State Patrol . Source: https://wsp.wa.gov/air-quality-awareness/”
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    The alert recommends using air filters at home and respirators when outside.“Use air filters in your home to ensure a safe space for respite from outside smoke. When outside, use a respirator to filter out smoke from the air.”
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    The alert recommends monitoring for symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.“Pay attention to your health, and watch for symptoms of unsafe exposure such as wheezing, coughing, dizziness, headache, or shortness of breath.”
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    Two fires have prompted state fire mobilizations.No usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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    The B and O Fire in Okanogan County started July 9.“The B and O Fire started on July 9, 2026, at approximately 2:14 p.m.”
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    The B and O Fire in Okanogan County covers 2,000 acres.“This fire is estimated at 2,000 acres and growing.”
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    The Ryegrass Coulee Fire in Kittitas County began July 8.“The Ryegrass Coulee Fire started on July 8, 2026, at approximately 4:51 p.m.”
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    The Ryegrass Coulee Fire in Kittitas County spans 600 acres.“This fire is estimated at 600 acres and growing.”
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    Both fires are threatening homes and infrastructure.“It is burning in grass and brush, and is threatening homes, infrastructure, and public safety. ... It is burning in grass, brush, and timber and is threatening homes, power infrastructure, and structures in the community of Vantage.”
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    Level 2 and 3 evacuations are in place.“Level 2 and Level 3 evacuations are in effect at this time.”
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    State resources, including five wildland strike teams, are being deployed to assist local firefighters.“Mobilization specialists from the Fire Protection Bureau have ordered five wildland strike teams to aid in containment efforts.”

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