It’s our first weekly article roundup of the year, covering important topics. We have articles that discuss how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke in California, the current strain of norovirus, and the link between alcohol consumption and cancer.

Opinion: In crises like wildfires, Angelenos want to help. We need better coordination

A request from the fire department was misconstrued online, illustrating the untapped resource of civic-minded neighbors eager to pitch in.

By Jay Balagna, Alyson B. Harding, and Vanessa Parks / Los Angeles Times

Siri’s listening to you — but is it spying?

Apple is poised to pay $95 million to users, but denies Siri was eavesdropping on purpose.

By Aja Romano / Vox

How Wildfire Smoke Affects Your Health—And How You Can Protect Yourself

Exposure to smoke is dangerous regardless of your health status, so follow these steps to limit the risk.

By Emily Mullin / Wired

Is a New Norovirus Strain Behind the Surge of Infections in the US? Experts Weigh In

A new strain of norovirus makes up the majority of outbreaks nationwide—and it may offer an explanation for the steep rise in infections over the past month.

By Korin Miller / health

How much alcohol is safe to drink?

The surgeon general says that cancer risk is “significantly lower” for someone who drinks one or two drinks a week, than somebody who drinks one or two drinks a day.

By Teddy Amenabar / The Washington Post