If a smoke map (AirNOW Smoke Map – https://fire.airnow.gov/) indicates plume over the area but there has been no indication of visible smoke at local level, communication necessity is determined by the air quality changes.
Air Quality Index is Good without any change in air quality
Health risk communication is optional: Smoke from prescribed burns will be produced, however, if the AQI level is Good and there is no expected temperature inversion (i.e., a layer in the atmosphere where the temperature increases with altitude; this usually occurs in the late afternoon to early evening lasting until the next morning; this can cause smoke and pollution to become trapped close to the surface) then the air quality is not expected to be adversely impacted and the air quality should be safe for everyone.
AQI is Good, but air quality changes are apparent in the community
Health risk communication is recommended: Close monitoring for changes to the AQI should be maintained and communication started is AQI changes.
AQI is Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
Health risk communication is necessary: If the AQI is Moderate, then first level precautions should be communicated immediately. If the AQI is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, then health communications should include limiting time spent outdoors or physical activity outdoors, closing windows and doors if staying inside, and reducing outdoor air intake in HVAC and using air purifiers. If the AQI level reaches Unhealthy or above, then all individuals should take these precautions, and outdoor workers should wear properly fitted N-95 masks. Note that sensitive groups include elderly adults, children, pregnant women, unhoused individuals, outdoor workers, and socially vulnerable individuals.