Frequently Asked Questions

Smokewise shares web, video, and written literature on how to improve indoor air quality, properly wear a respirator, and avoid smoke exposure. Smokewise provides educational presentations and workshops to citizens, businesses, and institutions regarding best practices for retrofitting buildings and planning for businesses ahead of extended smoke events.

In 2019, Smokewise rolled out an updated website with new videos and graphics. Smokewise hosted a Regional Business Resiliency workshop on February 20th, 2019. Community leaders, businesses, and organizations in Jackson and Josephine Counties worked to develop collective messaging and brainstorm new innovative ideas (PDF) to support quality of life and economic vitality during smoke events. We're working to support local businesses through adaptation of their facilities and providing smoke communication talking points.

Smokewise Ashland is a collaboration formed in 2016 that includes members from Ashland Fire and Rescue, Ashland Chamber of Commerce, Asante Ashland Community Hospital, Jackson County Health and Human Services, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and the City of Ashland Wildfire Safety Commission. Southern Oregon University has embraced Smokewise and opened clean-air shelters in the summer of 2018. The collaborative meets monthly and reports back to the Ashland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Partners organizing with Smokewise Ashland, the City of Ashland, and Jackson County recently adopted a Community Response Plan (CRP) (PDF) for coordination of efforts to address smoke from controlled burning and summer wildfires.