CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency in California due to ongoing wildfires.What is dangerous about these fires specifically is the toxic fumes, not just from the trees and brush, but the burning homes and buildings as well. Second Easthampton pedestrian accident on Route 10 in a week Air quality is poor in areas of Los Angeles and Ventura County. This is because of increased levels of particulate matter, PM 2.5, that spread dangerous chemicals into the air and our bodies. We spoke to Sarita Hudson with the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts about what adverse health impacts are associated with this smoke. "It's similar to what we know about air pollution in general," Hudson said. "You know, respiratory systems, respiratory effects, coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, the cardiovascular issues around heart problems and reduced lung function." We saw similar trends in Massachusetts during the height of wildfire season in October and November. The most at-risk groups are the elderly, children, and pregnant women.The best way to protect yourself is staying indoors and using an N-95 mask if going outside is necessary. Local News Headlines Senator Gomez names new member of staff The dangers of wildfire smoke on your health Funding awarded for more hours at local health center Springfield Thunderbirds to host Cammer Cup sled hockey event with local celebrities WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.