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NEWS

Gwinnett Newton and Rockdale County Health Departments
Wildfire Smoke is a Health Risk
April 23, 2026

Haze caused by wildfires in Southern Georgia and Northern Florida is moving through our area. Haze from a far-off fire is a sign of smoke traveling by wind.

Smoke from wildfires can hurt your eyes, worsen respiratory illness, and irritate your lungs. While healthy people may not face danger from short-term exposure, it’s best to minimize exposure and protect those with chronic health conditions, like asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or heart disease, as well as children and pregnant people. Individuals should contact their healthcare provider if they experience any new or worsening symptoms.

People in areas affected by the haze should monitor local air quality at www.airnow.gov and follow the advice of local emergency management officials. To learn how to protect your health and prepare for wildfires, visit When Smoke is in the Air at AirNow.gov, Wildfires and Your Safety at CDC.gov or Wildfires at Ready.gov.

Read the Georgia Department of Public Health Press Release About Smoke from Wildfires Spreading in Georgia

Fact Sheets

Download Reduce Your Smoke Exposure from AirNow.gov
Download Reduzca su exposición al humo

Smoke from Wildfires can hurt your eyes, worsen respiratory conditions and irritate your lungs. Limit time outdoors. Monitor local air quality. Protect people with chronic conditions. Follow the advice of local EMA officials.
All GNR Public Health locations will be closed for the staff training on Friday, April 24, 2026.

Regular hours will resume on Monday, April 27, 2026.