Gov. Gianforte Proclaims Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week

Encourages Montanans to prepare before smoke arrives

Governor's Office

HELENA, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte today proclaimed this week as Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week to encourage Montanans to take steps to proactively protect their health, improve indoor air quality, and prepare their homes before smoke arrives.

"As fire season approaches, it's important to remember the steps we can take to reduce the impacts of wildfire smoke," Gov. Gianforte said. "Being prepared and raising awareness about how Montanans can stay safe during fire season helps protect our families, communities, and quality of life when smoke is in the air."

While wildfire smoke can affect anyone, children, older adults, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD are especially vulnerable. Smoke Ready Week raises awareness on those Montanans especially impacted by wildfire smoke and urges public health agencies, community organizations, and emergency responders to work together to provide guidance, resources, and support to help individuals and families stay safe during wildfire smoke events.

"Being prepared for wildfire smoke is similar to preparing for any other emergency," said Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) Asthma Control Program Manager BJ Biskupiak. "Knowing where to find trusted air quality information, having a plan for protecting your family, and creating a cleaner indoor air space can help people stay healthy during smoky conditions."

To prepare for wildfire smoke, Montanans are encouraged to take the following steps:

• Monitor air quality forecasts and identify clean air resource centers in your region.
• Replace home heating and cooling system filters with a MERV-13 or higher rating.
• Use portable HEPA air cleaners to maintain a clean indoor air space.

"Wildfire smoke doesn't always come from fires burning nearby," said Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Air Quality Meteorologist, Aaron Ofseyer. "Smoke can travel hundreds of miles and affect communities across Montana. That's why every Montanan should take time during Smoke Ready Week to learn about available resources, such as the Today's Air website and smoke forecasts, and prepare before wildfire season intensifies."

During Smoke Ready Week, several events are being held across Montana to help residents learn about wildfire and smoke preparedness. On Tuesday, June 9, the 2026 Wildfire and Smoke Outlook Forum will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for the public to hear from experts on seasonal outlooks, drought conditions, and actions they can take to protect their health and homes. The forum will be simulcast live from Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell and the Missoula Public Library, with a virtual option also available. More information can be found here .

For wildfire smoke preparedness resources, air quality forecasts, smoke maps, and clean air resource center locations, visit the DPHHS Air Quality website page here . The DEQ Today's Air website can be found here and the smoke forecasts can be found here .

Gov. Gianforte's proclamation recognizing June 8 to 12 as "Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week" can be viewed here .

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