Joint Statement regarding California Wildfires

Today, thirty-one leading nursing organizations released a joint statement expressing concern about the ongoing climate crises and the health impacts of wildfires while urging for continued action at the federal, state and local levels to combat climate change and build community resilience.

“Health professionals, like nurses, understand the dangerous immediate and long-term health impacts of wildfires. Today, thirty-one leading nursing organizations from across the country have come together with a united voice regarding the need for increased community education, support for communities impacted, and action to address the climate crisis,” said Katie Huffling, DNP, RN, CNM, FAAN, Executive Director of the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments. “As the most trusted profession, nurses are uniquely positioned to engage with the American public on these critical points. As the threat of wildfires increases due to climate change, leading nursing organizations are jointly calling for strategic planning and consideration of our recommendations included in today’s statement.”

The joint statement released today includes educational information and opportunities for legislators and community stakeholders alike. The statement and the full list of signatories can be viewed here.

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The Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments is the only national nursing organization focused solely on the intersection of health and the environment. The mission of the Alliance is to promote healthy people and healthy environments by educating and leading the nursing profession, advancing research, incorporating evidence-based practice, and influencing policy. http://enviRN.org