Be Wildfire Smoke Ready: How to Prepare This Year

Whether you're a longtime resident of a wildfire-prone area or new to such an environment, understanding how to prepare for wildfire smoke can help you feel more in control when skies turn hazy.  

Wildfire smoke is a mix of gases and fine particulates, like PM2.5, from burning vegetation and building materials. These fine particles are especially small, often 30 times smaller than the width of one human hair, which means they can travel in the air and linger in our surroundings longer than you'd expect. 

While you can’t control the air outside, you can create a clean indoor environment. The key lies in staying informed and planning ahead. 

The first and most empowering step is simply knowing what’s in the air you’re breathing. There are several tools and resources that provide real-time air quality data: 

• AirNow.gov and local air quality apps offer updates using the AQI (Air Quality Index), a color-coded scale that shows how clean or polluted the air is and what it means for outdoor activity. 

• Set alerts on your phone or smart speaker for air quality changes in your area. 

• Pay attention to local advisories or alerts from fire and emergency agencies, especially during peak wildfire season (late spring through fall in many parts of the U.S.). 

The more you understand the changing outdoor conditions, the better decisions you can make. 

You don't need to remodel your house to improve your indoor air quality. Just a few practical steps can make a big difference: 

• Seal doors and windows during smoke events to keep outdoor air from entering. 

• Use weather stripping or draft stoppers to close gaps around doors. 

• If your home has central air conditioning, set it to recirculate mode. This prevents smoky air from being pulled inside. 

• Window units can also help if they’re set to recirculate rather than bring in outside air. Make sure any outside-air intakes are closed. 

• Choose an air purifier that’s rated for your room size. 

• Consider running a purifier in your bedroom at night and in your main living space during the day. 

• Get an air purifier that has 3-stage filtration, including an activated carbon filter for heavy smoke and odors. 

When wildfire smoke is present, it’s helpful to reduce anything that could worsen your indoor air quality: 

• Avoid burning candles, using fireplaces, or smoking indoors. 

• Try not to fry food or cook on gas stoves for long periods. Opt for microwave meals or no-cook recipes on smoky days. 

• Keep vacuuming and dusting to a minimum unless you’re using a vacuum with a filter. Otherwise, you may stir up indoor dust and particles. 

While most people will shelter in place during smoky periods, it's a good idea to have a plan ready in case evacuations are advised: 

• Pack a portable air purifier if staying in temporary housing. 

• Include N95 or P100 masks in your emergency kit. They can filter out fine smoke particles when you need to be outdoors. 

• Include essential medications, important documents, and non-perishable snacks, especially if you live in a wildfire-prone region. 

Having these ready ahead of time can reduce stress during unpredictable conditions. 

If a wildfire smoke event occurs near you, follow these actions: 

• Stay indoors, and keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. 

• Use your clean air space—whether it's a bedroom, home office, or living room equipped with a purifier and sealed from smoke intrusion. 

• Reduce physical activity, especially outdoors. Breathing deeply during exercise can increase the amount of smoke you inhale. 

• Monitor vulnerable family members, like young children, older adults, or those with existing respiratory conditions, and make sure their clean air space is especially well protected. 

Preparedness isn't just about your household. You can also help your workplace, school, or community get ready: 

• Encourage local schools and daycares to monitor AQI levels and adapt outdoor activities accordingly. 

• Ask workplaces about indoor air policies during wildfire season, especially in open office or warehouse environments. 

• Advocate for clean air shelters in your area, especially if your region regularly experiences long or repeated smoke events. 

By sharing these ideas with others, you help build a more resilient community, one step at a time. 

Preparing for wildfire smoke doesn't mean you need to live in fear. Think of it like stocking up before a snowstorm—it's about minimizing disruption and protecting your home environment. With a bit of planning, you can reduce your exposure to smoke and feel confident that you’re ready for whatever the season brings. 

The information provided here is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be used in medical emergencies or for diagnosing or treating any medical condition. It's crucial to consult a licensed medical professional for diagnosis and treatment. External links are for informational purposes and do not constitute endorsements. No warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, is made as to the products and/or the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, or correctness of the information provided herein.