Story highlights Particles and gases from wildfires can cause respiratory issues and sinus infection-like symptoms

Limiting smoke exposure and taking precautions indoors can help

(CNN) Wildfires are ravaging through northern and southern California and as powerful winds sweep through the state, the death toll climbs and firefighters are stretched to the limit.

Northern California's Camp fire and the Woolsey and Hill fires in Southern California have led officials to issue unhealthy air quality warnings throughout the San Francisco Bay area and affected populations in and around Los Angeles.

Here is some advice for reducing your exposure risk and keeping yourself and your family safe.

Why wildfire smoke makes you sick

Wildfire smoke includes particles from burning vegetation and building materials mixed with gases. If your eyes feel like they're stinging, smoke exposure could also be inflicting other damage. Particles could be getting into your respiratory system.