While the burning blaze of wildfires is an obvious threat, wildfire smoke can also be hazardous as it makes outdoor air nearly unbreathable.
The harmful nature of wildfire smoke comes from the microscopic particles it contains. According to the EPA, the particles find their way into your eyes and respiratory system, which can cause health problems such as burning eyes, aggravating lung and heart diseases and, in worst cases, premature deaths.
The people most at risk from wildfire smoke are people with lung diseases, such as asthma, or heart disease, older adults, children and expectant mothers, according to the CDC. However, wildfire smoke can be harmful to anyone.
Because of these risks, residents may be advised to stay indoors during a wildfire event. Still, the microscopic particles from wildfire smoke can also find their way indoors, making the air quality within homes potentially hazardous.
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Here are some tips on how you can protect your family and your home from the dangers of wildfire smoke.
During a wildfire smoke event, local officials may advise residents who have not been evacuated to stay indoors and limit their exposure to the poor outdoor air. The EPA provides the following advice on how to reduce the amount of smoke that enters your home:
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The EPA also provides recommendations on how to clean the air in your home:
While you’re cleaning the air in your home, try to avoid doing activities that may introduce more or kick up existing particles into the air:
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Wildfire smoke events often leave behind ash or other debris around your home, exposing you and your family to particles that can irritate your eyes, nose, and skin and cause other health problems.
To safely clean your home of these particulates, the EPA advises residents to keep these tips in mind:
Before, during and after a wildfire smoke event, be sure to check the air quality index for your area.