What You Need to Know - and How ServiceMaster Can Help

Wildfire smoke is becoming a growing concern along the Oregon Coast, especially in communities like Lincoln City and the surrounding coastal areas. As fire seasons grow longer and more intense, coastal residents are increasingly exposed to smoke - even when fires burn miles away. But many people don’t realize just how harmful that exposure can be. One of the most common questions we hear is:

Is wildfire smoke worse than cigarette smoke?

The short answer: Yes, in many ways, it can be.

What Makes Wildfire Smoke So Dangerous?

Like cigarette smoke, wildfire smoke contains thousands of toxic chemicals, including carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and microscopic particles known as PM2.5. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream, increasing the risk of:

Respiratory illnesses
Asthma attacks
Heart disease
Stroke
Premature death

But unlike cigarette smoke - which is typically limited to one smoker and their immediate surroundings - wildfire smoke spreads over entire communities, exposing everyone, including vulnerable populations like children, seniors, and those with chronic conditions.

And while most people can choose to avoid cigarette smoke, wildfire smoke often infiltrates homes and businesses without warning, lingering for days or weeks after the flames are gone.

How Wildfire Smoke Compares to Cigarettes

According to a 2018 study from the National Institutes of Health, inhaling wildfire smoke for just a few days can be equivalent to smoking several packs of cigarettes - depending on the concentration and duration of exposure.

Even after the visible smoke clears, odor and residue can remain, clinging to walls, furniture, HVAC systems, and personal belongings. This “thirdhand smoke” can continue to release toxins long after the initial exposure.

ServiceMaster Restoration Services: Here to Protect Your Property and Your Health

At ServiceMaster, we understand the serious risks that wildfire smoke and fire damage pose to your health, your family, and your peace of mind. That’s why we offer professional smoke odor removal and fire damage restoration services across Oregon - with local teams based in Lincoln City, Salem, Eugene and Corvallis.

Our trained technicians use specialized equipment and proven cleaning methods to:

Remove hazardous smoke particles and residue
Eliminate stubborn odors at the molecular level
Restore damaged surfaces, materials, and contents
Ensure your indoor air quality is safe and clean

Don’t Risk Your Health - Call ServiceMaster Today

Whether your home or business was directly affected by a wildfire, or you’re dealing with residual smoke odor and contamination, ServiceMaster is here to help. We bring national resources with a local response, so you get fast, expert service tailored to your community’s needs.

Your health and safety are our top priorities. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or learn more about our wildfire smoke and fire damage restoration services. Call now or visit our website to get started.

Breathe easier with ServiceMaster - because clean air is not optional.