How to protect yourself from the bad air caused by wildfires
Summary
Wildfire smoke can travel long distances and reduce air quality, even in places far from the fire itself. Experts advise people, especially those with lung or heart issues, to limit outdoor exposure, wear N95 masks, and improve indoor air by closing windows and using air filters.Key Facts
- Smoke from wildfires can travel across states and countries, affecting air quality in distant areas.
- The EPA uses an Air Quality Index (AQI) to rate air healthiness, with numbers above 150 considered unsafe for everyone.
- Sensitive groups include people with asthma, lung diseases, or heart problems who should take extra precautions.
- N95 masks can filter out 90-95% of harmful particles in wildfire smoke.
- Indoor air can be cleaned by closing windows, running air conditioners on recirculate mode, and using high-quality filters like MERV 13.
- Air quality can be checked using EPA websites or sensor networks like PurpleAir.
- Short outdoor exposure is usually not harmful for most people, but symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath mean you should go indoors.
- Low-cost indoor air quality monitors are now widely available to track pollution levels at home.
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