When it comes to wildfire smoke, being prepared is key to protecting your family’s health. Here are 5 essential tips for wildfire smoke season to help you breathe easier.
- Monitor Outdoor Air Quality Regularly: Don’t wait until you see or smell smoke. Use a reliable outdoor air quality source (like local environmental agency websites or your uHoo app’s integrated external data) to stay updated on the Air Quality Index (AQI) in your area. This will tell you when smoke is present and at what levels, guiding your actions.
- Keep Your Indoors Sealed Tight: This is your primary defense. When outdoor air quality is poor due to smoke, keep all windows and doors closed. Use weather stripping or draft stoppers to seal any gaps. Ensure pet doors are shut. This creates a barrier against smoke infiltration.
- Optimize Your Air Conditioner (AC): Your AC can be your ally. One of the best tips for wildfire smoke is to run your central AC or window units on “recirculate” mode if available, to avoid drawing in outdoor smoky air. Make sure your AC filters are clean and consider upgrading to a higher-efficiency MERV filter (MERV 13 or higher is good for capturing fine particles, but check your AC unit’s compatibility first).
- Use a Portable Air Purifier: For an extra layer of protection, especially in rooms where you spend a lot of time (like bedrooms), a portable air purifier with a true HEPA filter is highly effective at capturing fine smoke particles (PM2.5). Ensure it’s correctly sized for your room.
- Avoid Activities That Create Indoor Smoke: Don’t add to the problem. During wildfire smoke events, avoid burning candles, incense, or using gas stoves and fireplaces. Also, refrain from indoor smoking, as these activities generate additional fine particulate matter that further degrades your indoor air quality.
By following these practical tips for wildfire smoke season, you can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful airborne pollutants and protect your family’s respiratory health, even when the air outside gets hazy.
