What Can I Do When Wildfire Smoke Affects the Air Quality Near Me?

With the increasing occurrence of wildfires and pollution, many individuals worldwide find themselves facing the detrimental effects of smoke on air quality and health. Exposure to smoke can lead to a range of respiratory issues and other health concerns. It is crucial to understand the steps one can take to minimize the impact of smoke and protect their well-being.

During periods of smoke and poor air quality, staying informed becomes paramount. Keep track of local news and updates from relevant authorities such as environmental agencies or health organizations. Utilize online resources like air quality indexes and apps that provide real-time air quality data. And installing continuous monitoring devices, such as TSI’s AirAssure™ Continuous Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Monitor, providing real-time alerts through TSI Link™ solutions. Staying on top and being aware of the current conditions, you can make informed decisions about your activities and take appropriate precautions.

Reducing exposure to smoke is vital for safeguarding your health. Whenever possible, stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed to minimize the entry of smoke. Create a clean and safe indoor environment by using air purifiers or filters, which can help remove smoke particles from the air. Avoid outdoor activities, especially during peak hours when smoke concentrations tend to be highest. Smoke exposure can cause throat and respiratory irritation, so it's essential to stay hydrated to soothe your airways. Drink plenty of water and herbal teas to keep your body well-hydrated.

When venturing outdoors becomes necessary, it is essential to protect yourself from smoke inhalation. If you or others are sensitive to poor air quality due to wildfire smoke, it is suggested to wear a properly fitted N95 or N99 respirator mask, as it can effectively filter out fine particles present in the smoke. Additionally, cover your nose and mouth with a cloth or scarf to further reduce exposure. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper mask usage and disposal.

Since you will be spending more time indoors when wildfire smoke affects air quality, it becomes crucial to maintain good IAQ. Avoid activities that introduce more pollutants into the air, such as smoking, using harsh cleaning chemicals, or burning candles. Regularly clean and vacuum your living space to minimize dust and other airborne particles. Indoor plants are known for their excellent air-purifying properties, such as spider plants or peace lilies.

Coping with the adverse effects of smoke on air quality and health requires a proactive and informed approach. By staying informed, minimizing exposure, creating smoke-free zones, using protective gear, and maintaining good indoor air quality, you can mitigate the impact of smoke on your well-being. Remember to prioritize your health, stay hydrated, and seek medical advice if needed. Together, we can navigate through periods of smoke and protect ourselves and our loved ones from its harmful effects.

Stay informed and monitor air quality with real-time alerts through TSI Link™, the tool that TSI customers use to track and share air quality they measure with products like the Bluesky™ Outdoor Air Quality Monitor alongside with the AirAssure™ Indoor Air Quality Monitor, both giving instant air quality data with a free account on tsilink.com. Sign up today to learn more about air quality in your part of the world.