Gov. Jared Polis and state health officials urged Coloradans on Wednesday to monitor air quality and limit outdoor activity as wildfire smoke spread across the state.

Officials at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment are closely tracking conditions that can shift rapidly with fire activity, wind and weather. Coloradans should check the Air Quality Index regularly through state and federal sources.

“Colorado’s air quality is being impacted by wildfire smoke, and the health and safety of Coloradans is our top priority,” Polis said in a news release. “We’re urging Coloradans, especially those with respiratory conditions, children and older adults, to limit strenuous or extensive outdoor activity and stay informed as conditions change.”

The department’s air quality forecasters continue monitoring smoke and data to inform the public and local partners, Jill Hunsaker Ryan, executive director of the department, said in the release.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can affect the lungs and heart even without visible or noticeable smoke. Vulnerable groups include children, older adults, pregnant and postpartum people, outdoor workers and those with asthma or other heart or lung conditions.

State officials recommend several protective steps. Coloradans should check conditions at Colorado.gov/airquality, Fire.AirNow.gov or the AirNow mobile app. They should sign up for air quality alerts, review advisories and the Colorado Smoke Blog and limit time outdoors when smoke is present.

Additional measures include avoiding strenuous activity such as running, biking or mowing, keeping windows and doors closed, using air conditioning on recirculate and employing HEPA air cleaners when available. Officials also suggest spending time in public spaces with cleaner indoor air if needed and wearing a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask outdoors when necessary.

People should contact a health-care provider for persistent symptoms such as trouble breathing or coughing.

The latest information on local alerts is available at DHSEM.Colorado.gov.

State officials recommend Coloradans prepare a 72-hour go-kit in advance in case of a potential wildfire evacuation.

The kit should include a three-day supply of nonperishable food and three gallons of water per person, according to Colorado emergency management sources.

Denver Gazette reporter Bethany Johnson contributed to this story.