People who have central air conditioning can use high-efficiency filters to capture fine particles from smoke, according to the CDC. If the system has a fresh air intake, it should be set to recirculate mode or the outdoor intake damper should be closed.
Portable air cleaners are good options, but not just any air purifier will do. For best results, the air cleaner should have a filter rated as “high efficiency” (high MERV) or HEPA, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Air cleaners under $200 “often do not clean the air as well and may not be as effective against wildfire smoke,” according to the EPA. Air purifiers should be non-ozone-generating.
Another option is to create a “clean room,” sealing off all windows and outside doors and cleaning the air in the room with a portable air purifier.
“Stay hydrated by drinking water during heavy smoke events,” Sonoma County officials urged in a Saturday release, cautioning that smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing cough, a dry scratchy throat and trouble breathing.
Adults “may benefit from wearing an N95 mask if they have one and must be outdoors. This helps protect you from unhealthy air,” according to Kaiser Permanente. Such masks can block the fine particulate matter in smoke.
Perhaps a bit of a silver lining: “Vacuuming stirs up particles already inside your home, contributing to indoor pollution,” according to the CDC. So, if nothing else, folks have at least a partial excuse from housework.
