When Wildfires Break Out Nearby: Try These

It seems like wildfires get worse every year and as we are staring down the barrel at summer now in the northern hemisphere, we should probably prepare for another wildfire season. At times, it’s almost as if half the world is on fire, between pandemics, earthquakes, and more. But smoke-season can be a serious health threat, so we're here to help you prepare. You might not be able to avoid every seasonal blaze, but you can protect yourself when one hits nearby.

Use Respirator Masks

Wildfires can make air quality miserable and for those with health concerns such as asthma or heart disease, it can even be life-threatening. Respirator masks may be helpful when going out for short periods, but users must choose the right level of protection and make sure the mask has the right fit. Surgical masks, bandanas and the like won’t be enough to protect from smoke. For smoke, we need a mask that can keep fine particles out of the lungs. Masks should be capable of filtering out 95% of all particulate matter, and they will usually have a rating of “R95,” “N95” or “P95” clearly marked on the label.

Masks can be taxing to breathe through and can induce heat stress, so people with cardiac or respiratory diseases should only use them under a doctor’s supervision. They also need a tight seal to work properly, so people with facial hair may not be able to make them work well at all. Also, respirator masks are unlikely to work on small children due to their size. So there are serious drawbacks to the idea of masks.

Air Filtration

The single best way to protect our health from wildfire smoke is to stay inside as much as possible, keeping doors and windows closed with towels or other draft blockers under doors to keep the outdoor air outside. Run a central air conditioning unit, if you have one, and use a high-quality HEPA filter if possible. For those who don't have central AC, it may help to obtain a heavy-duty indoor air filter and keep it running or at the very least to add a humidifier to every room to help bind the smoke particles that do come inside.

When the air quality in the area reaches "unhealthy" it may help to be stocked up so as to minimize outside time and errands. Stock up on essentials, leaving your home only when absolutely necessary. Check your local air quality index (AQI) often and try to limit your time outside to when AQI numbers are at the worst.

Evacuation Prep

Be prepared ahead of time so you’re ready to go in the event that a wildfire threatens your home, but it may also help to go visit friends or family a safe distance away in the event of smoke if that's possible, too. Here are a few steps you can take:

• Invest in a fire-proof safe for important documents and irreplaceable valuables, such as photos.
• Make sure you’re current on homeowners’ or renters’ insurance.
• Have a plan for pets and livestock, don't just turn them out and hope for the best.
• Prepare an emergency ready kit with enough food, water and supplies to get you through 72-96 hours. Also have a flashlight, waterproof matches and any medications for every family member.
• Try to set aside some money in case you need to vacate the area and spend time in a hotel. Keep in mind that the cost of gas, food and other expenses will add up.
• Listen for evacuation warnings and heed them immediately if they come.

A bit of preparation now could keep you and your family safe in the event of an emergency.

Wildfires can come without warning, leaving a wake of destruction and clouding the skies with toxic smoke but we can prepare in advance to avoid being caught off guard. Protect yourself by staying prepared, keeping on top of the local air quality index and having a plan in the case of evacuation. Stay informed to remain safe.

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