L.A. Wildfires: Essential Tips to Protect Yourself from Smoke Exposure

As wildfires rage through Southern California, the impact of smoke can extend far beyond the fire zones. Even if you are not directly in the path of the flames, poor air quality from drifting smoke can be harmful. Here’s what you need to know to minimize your exposure and keep yourself safe.

The Best Defense Against Harmful Smoke- Stay Inside

When wildfire smoke fills the air, your first line of defense is staying indoors. Seal up windows and doors to limit exposure to the toxic air outside. For added protection, keep your air conditioning running, ensuring the fresh-air intake is closed to avoid drawing in contaminated air.

Shield Your Pets from Harmful Air

Your pets are not immune to the risks of wildfire smoke. Just like humans, animals can suffer from breathing in polluted air. Keep your pets indoors, ensuring their safety alongside the rest of your family.

Breathe Easy Clean your Air Filters

Indoor air quality matters when wildfire smoke is in the air. Regularly check and replace your air filters, especially if they are old or clogged. High-efficiency filters with a MERV rating of 13 or higher can trap harmful particles in the air. You may also want to invest in a portable air cleaner for rooms where you spend the most time.

Simple Steps to Improve Air Quality

During wildfire season, every step you take to maintain clean indoor air matters. Avoid burning candles or incense, as these can worsen air quality. Refrain from using fireplaces, gas stoves, and wood-burning appliances, which can further contribute to harmful pollutants indoors. The CDC recommends avoiding activities like vacuuming, which can stir up dust and fine particles into the air.

Protect Yourself During Clean-Up

If you need to clean ash from outdoor areas, it’s important to wear protective clothing—long sleeves, pants, gloves, socks, and even goggles. Wet the ash before sweeping it to prevent dust from becoming airborne. Always dispose of ash in a plastic bag and be mindful of where you direct contaminated water during clean-up. People with respiratory conditions should avoid this type of activity entirely.

Discarding Spoiled Items After a Power Outage

Wildfires can lead to power outages, which can spoil food in your refrigerator and freezer. Perishable items like meat, poultry, and dairy should be discarded if the power has been out for more than four hours. For frozen items, check if they’re still below 40°F or have ice crystals. If not, they may need to be thrown out to avoid foodborne illnesses.

Consider Alternative Shelter

If you’re still experiencing symptoms like coughing, watery eyes, or trouble breathing despite your efforts to protect yourself, consider seeking shelter with better air quality. Emergency shelters or community centers may have cleaner air or better ventilation during times of wildfire smoke exposure.

Avoid Strenuous Activity

Exerting yourself during a smoky period can worsen the health impacts of the smoke. Hold off on any strenuous activities, such as exercise, which can force you to inhale more deeply. It’s best to take it easy until air quality improves.

Mask Up

If you must go outside during smoky conditions, wearing a mask is crucial. Regular cloth masks and surgical masks are not sufficient—opt for a high-quality N95 or P-100 respirator with a tight seal to filter out harmful particulate matter.

How Wildfire Smoke Affects Kids?

Children are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of wildfire smoke. Due to their faster breathing rate and still-developing lungs, they are at higher risk of respiratory issues. Keep them indoors as much as possible, and if they must go outside, have them wear a well-fitting KN95 mask for additional protection.

Pregnant? Take Extra Precautions

Pregnant individuals should be especially cautious, as exposure to wildfire smoke has been linked to an increased risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and maternal health issues like hypertension. Make sure to follow the same precautions as others, but stay even more vigilant about limiting smoke exposure.

Extra Protection for Those with Preexisting Conditions

Individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart disease face additional risks when exposed to wildfire smoke. The tiny particles in the air can aggravate these conditions and even increase the likelihood of heart attacks or strokes. These individuals should take extra care to stay indoors and avoid exertion during periods of smoky air.

Get Ready for Future Wildfires

Wildfires are an unfortunate reality in Southern California, and preparing for the next emergency can make all the difference. Stock up on N95 masks, clean filters for your air conditioning system, and make sure you have a five-day supply of medication if you have a heart or lung condition. Familiarize yourself with local air quality maps and sign up for air quality alerts to stay informed during wildfire seasons.

By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself, your family, and your pets from the dangerous effects of wildfire smoke and ensure that you’re ready for the next wildfire emergency.