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| source : nationalgeographic.com |
Let me tell you, as someone who used to think smoke season was just a West Coast thing, I was caught completely off guard when our skies turned orange last summer right here on the East Coast. The air smelled like a campfire, and my throat burned just walking to the mailbox. That’s when I dove deep into the science, expert advice, and practical strategies to protect my lungs, and my peace of mind.
If you're in a region affected by wildfires (or downwind from one), this one’s for you.
Wait, How Bad Is Wildfire Smoke, Really?
In one word: toxic. Wildfire smoke isn’t just wood smoke, it’s a cocktail of hazardous gases, microscopic particles (PM2.5 and smaller), and often burned plastics or chemicals from structures and vehicles. These particles can travel deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream. That’s why the air can look clear, but still be dangerous.
And don’t think you’re safe just because you’re far from the fire, those particles can drift hundreds of miles thanks to the jet stream.
Who’s Most at Risk?
While anyone can be affected, these groups need to take extra care:
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Kids (their lungs are still developing)
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Seniors
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Pregnant individuals
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People with asthma, COPD, or heart disease
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Outdoor workers or frequent exercisers
If that’s you or someone you love, it’s time to get proactive.
What Does Smoke Exposure Feel Like?
Here’s what I (and others) have experienced:
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Itchy eyes and throat
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Headaches
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Coughing or shortness of breath
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Fatigue, brain fog, or dizziness
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Even chest pain in sensitive individuals
If these symptoms show up when the AQI (Air Quality Index) is high, they could be smoke-related.
What I Do Now, 6 Tips to Stay Safe When the Air Isn’t
These are the habits I’ve adopted after learning from pulmonologists, CDC guidelines, and firsthand trial-and-error:
1. Check the Air Every Morning
I bookmark AirNow.gov and keep an eye on the AQI like it’s the weather. If it hits “orange” or higher, I adjust my plans, especially outdoor workouts.
2. Make Your Home a Safe Haven
Seal windows and doors. I use a rolled towel at the base of drafty doors. If you have central AC, use a HEPA-grade filter and close any outdoor intake vents. No HVAC? A portable air purifier in one main room (aka your “clean room”) works wonders.
3. Mask Up, For Real
Not all masks are created equal. Surgical masks don’t block wildfire particles. I keep a stash of N95s or KN95s, which filter out the fine stuff. If I have to walk the dog or run errands during a smoke alert, I wear one.
4. Skip Anything That Pollutes Indoors
That means no incense, no candles, no vacuuming (yep, that kicks particles into the air), and no cooking on gas stoves if you can help it. If I need to cook, I go microwave or instant pot, fast and low-fume.
5. Stock Up (Before Smoke Hits)
Wildfire season is now part of life for many. I keep:
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3 days’ worth of food that doesn’t need cooking
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Water
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Medications
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Extra filters and masks
That way I’m not scrambling when smoke rolls in.
6. Make a Plan for Evacuation
If you live in a wildfire-prone zone, make your evacuation checklist now. That includes digital backups of IDs, pet carriers, an emergency bag, and charging power banks.
Real Talk: Wildfires Are Our New Normal
Climate change means these fires aren’t going away anytime soon. But we’re not powerless. With the right info and a few intentional habits, you can protect your lungs and your health.
Trust me, the air you breathe matters more than you think. And the sooner we treat wildfire smoke like the serious health threat it is, the safer and more prepared we’ll be.