Wildfires: How to cope when smoke affects air quality and health: Wildfire Smoke
Wildfires smoke are on the rise, and with them comes heavy smoke that can travel hundreds of miles, filling clear blue skies with a hazardous haze. When you breathe in this contaminated air, your lungs can become damaged, your allergies can be activated, and underlying health issues like asthma can get worse. But don't worry there are methods to help keep you and your family safe. Here's what you need to do.
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Check Air Quality Daily
Prior to venturing outside, consult the Air Quality Index (AQI) on apps such as Air Visual or Purple Air. If the AQI is higher than 100 (unhealthy for sensitive groups) or higher than 150 (unhealthy for all groups), curtail outdoor activities.
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Remain Indoors When Possible
Keep doors and windows shut to keep smoke out of your house. If you have a HEPA-filter air purifier, turn it on to clean the air in your home. No purifier? A make-do air filter (a box fan with a MERV-13 filter duct-taped to it) will do in a pinch.
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Mask Up Wisely: Wildfire Smoke
Not all masks filter out smoke. Cloth and surgical masks don't do much use an N95 or KN95 respirator if you have to venture out. These stop small smoke particles from entering your lungs, damaging them.
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Don't Add Indoor Pollution: Wildfire Smoke
Skip things that degrade indoor air, such as burning candles, cooking with a fryer, or vacuuming (which can agitate dust). If you have an AC, put it into recirculate mode to prevent drawing smoky air in.
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Stay Hydrated & Listen to Your Body
Smoke irritates your lungs and throat. Stay hydrated, and monitor for coughing, headaches, or breathing difficulties. If you have heart disease, asthma, keep medicines nearby.
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Protect Pets & Vulnerable Groups
Pets and children are more vulnerable to smoke. Bring pets inside, and limit the intensity of outdoor play in kids. Take extra care if you're older people or have lung disease.
Final Thoughts: Wildfire smoke is a serious health hazard, but with intelligent habits, you can minimize its effect. Stay plugged in, stay inside, and be good to your body because fresh air shouldn't be.
NOTE: – IT IS ALWAYS RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL. ALL DATA SHARED HERE ARE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
