AARP Hearing Center
Supporting Spokane Communities Impacted by Wildfires
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To all who are being impacted by the Spokane County wildfires,
Our hearts are with everyone affected by the devastating wildfires impacting Spokane County. We know many people have been forced to leave their homes with little notice, while others are facing uncertainty about the safety of loved ones, property, and their communities. Some may have experienced significant loss, including the loss of a home or cherished belongings.
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Please know that all of us at AARP Washington are thinking of you during this difficult time. The safety and well-being of our members, their families, caregivers, volunteers, and neighbors remain our deepest concern.
As conditions continue to change, we urge everyone to rely on official emergency management agencies for accurate, up-to-date information. The best source for evacuation orders, emergency alerts, shelter information, and public safety guidance is Spokane County Emergency Management.
According to Spokane County Emergency Management, residents should register for emergency alerts through Alert Spokane, monitor evacuation notices closely, and be prepared to leave immediately if a Level 3 evacuation order is issued. They also recommend having a "go bag" ready with medications, important documents, water, food, pet supplies, and other essential items.
What To Do If You Are Affected
If you are under an evacuation order or believe you may need to leave quickly:
- Follow all evacuation instructions immediately. Do not wait if local authorities tell you to leave.
- Sign up for emergency notifications through Alert Spokane.
- Keep your phone charged and monitor local emergency updates.
- Gather medications, medical equipment, identification, important papers, and emergency contacts.
- If you have pets, make arrangements to evacuate them with you.
- Check on older family members, neighbors, and others who may need assistance evacuating.
Spokane County Emergency Management also encourages residents to familiarize themselves with evacuation maps and routes before they are needed.
How You Can Help
Even if you are not directly impacted, many Spokane-area residents will need support in the days and weeks ahead.
Local organizations have established ways for community members to assist those affected by the fires. Current opportunities highlighted by regional news organizations include:
- Donating to the City of Spokane's wildfire relief efforts through the H.O.M.E. Starts Here Fund, which is supporting wildfire recovery and immediate needs.
- Supporting organizations and community groups working directly with affected families through the Innovia Foundation's wildfire response efforts.
- Contributing to relief efforts coordinated by the American Red Cross and local partners that are providing shelter, supplies, and assistance to displaced residents.
- Donating food and other requested items through trusted local organizations assisting fire survivors.
Before donating goods, check directly with relief agencies to ensure items are currently needed and can be accepted.
Protect Yourself From Wildfire Smoke
Even for those outside evacuation zones, wildfire smoke can pose serious health risks, particularly for older adults and people living with heart or lung conditions.
AARP recommends the following steps to reduce exposure:
- Monitor local air quality and smoke forecasts regularly.
- Stay indoors when air quality is unhealthy.
- Keep windows and doors closed when smoke levels are high.
- Run air conditioning on recirculate if available.
- Consider using a HEPA air purifier or creating a clean-air room in your home.
- If you must spend time outdoors during smoky conditions, consider wearing a properly fitted N95 mask.
- Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activity when smoke levels increase.
Watch for symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, burning eyes, headaches, wheezing, dizziness, or shortness of breath. If symptoms become severe, seek medical attention.
We Are Thinking of You
In times like these, communities come together. We have seen neighbors helping neighbors throughout Spokane County, and that spirit of care and resilience is more important than ever.
Please continue to follow guidance from emergency officials and trusted public safety agencies. For the latest information on evacuations, alerts, and emergency resources, visit Spokane County Emergency Management.
Stay safe, take care of one another, and know that the entire AARP Washington family is thinking of you and your loved ones.
AARP Washington
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