Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week: Key Safety Tips

On Monday, June 8, 2026, Governor Greg Gianforte proclaimed the week "Montana Wildfire Smoke Ready Week" to bring not just awareness to wildfire season, but the serious health issues associated with it.

via GIPHY

The Governor also offered several ways residents can be ready in the case of increased smoke but also encouraged emergency service agencies to "offer guidance, resources, and support to help individuals and families stay safe during wildfire smoke events."

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Montana Governor Urges Residents to Be Wildfire Smoke Ready

As part of the proclamation, Gov. Gianforte said "As fire season approaches, it’s important to remember the steps we can take to reduce the impacts of wildfire smoke". He continued, stating "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.”

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The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) also echoed the urgency of being prepared, even if the fire isn't in Montana. Smoke can travel hundreds of miles from other states, effecting the air quality for residents across Big Sky Country according to the DEQ statement.

Easy Ways to Make Yourself and Your Home Wildfire Smoke Ready in Montana

The Governor is encouraging Montana residents to follow 3 easy steps to help be prepared for errant smoke from fires this summer. Residents can follow these 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.

The Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) added that "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.” You can learn more about air quality monitoring here with the DPHHS; DEQ monitoring is available here.

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Filed Under: air quality, Gianforte, Governor Gianforte, health, Montana, montana wildfires, smoke, wildfire, Wildfires

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