After a much wetter than usual winter in the Southwest, spring winds blew away most of the surface moisture and increased fire dangers. Until the monsoon arrives (probably sometime in early July), we’ll be in the peak season for wildland fires in Arizona.  Our Department plays a significant role in the response for major wildland fires.  Our initial roles mostly include environmental health functions– especially surrounding health risks from smoke, sanitary conditions and food safety in shelters.  However, the longest lasting response for major fire events (like Rodeo-Chediski) are related to behavioral health during the Recovery period.  You can read more in our Wildfire Smoke and Your Health brochure and in The ADHS Wildfire Plan [PDF 1.5M].