Benton and Lincoln counties issue wildfire-season health and evacuation guidance

Benton and Lincoln counties are urging residents to prepare for wildfire season with health precautions and evacuation planning, according to official guidance posted this week.

Lincoln County said on May 18 that the counties are highlighting the health risks of wildfire smoke and the importance of being ready to leave quickly if conditions change. The guidance focuses on protecting people from smoke exposure, staying informed and planning for evacuation before an emergency develops.

Residents who may need to be outside during smoky conditions are advised to use a NIOSH-approved N95 mask. Officials also recommend keeping indoor air cleaner by closing windows, using HEPA filtration and avoiding activities that add smoke indoors.

The counties specifically urge people in higher-risk groups to plan ahead for evacuation or sheltering. That includes pregnant people, young children, older adults and people with chronic health conditions.

The guidance builds on a wildfire awareness campaign Benton County and Lincoln County launched on May 6. That campaign emphasized wildfire prevention, smoke and air quality, evacuation planning and emergency alerts.

Lincoln County also directs residents to its wildfire preparedness resources, including evacuation level definitions and alert sign-up information.

What residents are being told

The county guidance centers on a few basic steps: monitor alerts, prepare to evacuate early, use proper masks during smoke exposure and improve indoor air quality at home.

Officials say those precautions are especially important as wildfire season begins and smoke conditions can change quickly.