Staying Safe Indoors: Tips for Maintaining Healthy Air During Wildfire Season

The recent wildfires in California have caused unprecedented devastation, destroying more buildings than the last seven major fires combined. The Camp Fire in Northern California burned over 150,000 acres, claiming 85 lives and leaving many unaccounted for. Though the number of missing people has thankfully decreased, the damage is extensive, with tens of thousands of homes and structures lost. Meanwhile, the Woolsey Fire in Southern California scorched nearly 100,000 acres, resulting in three fatalities and damaging or destroying over 1,800 structures. Thanks to the relentless efforts of firefighters, both fires were fully contained, even as they worked through the holidays.

Lingering Health Threats from Air Pollution

Although the fires have been contained, their aftermath continues to pose health risks. Smoke from the fires has significantly worsened air quality across California, with pollution levels surpassing those of India and China, typically known for poor air quality. The air now contains toxins and carcinogens, making it crucial to monitor air quality reports daily. Individuals with pre-existing lung conditions like asthma or COPD are especially vulnerable.

To minimize exposure, many people use respirator masks, which are more effective than standard surgical or cloth masks in filtering pollutants such as asbestos — a known carcinogen often released from damaged structures. Symptoms of exposure to poor air quality include nasal irritation, congestion, and burning sensations in the throat and eyes. These are warning signs of possible exposure to hazardous airborne fibers, indicating the need for immediate protective measures. In serious cases, consulting an expert in toxic exposure may be necessary.

Keeping Indoor Air Safe

While many have lost their homes, those who remain indoors can take several steps to protect their air quality:

1. Limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous ones.
2. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent outside pollutants from entering.
3. Use air purifiers to help reduce indoor air contaminants (though they can’t eliminate all pollutants, they can help in specific areas like bedrooms or living rooms).
4. Avoid using gas stoves, candles, incense, or fireplaces, as these can increase indoor air pollution.
5. Refrain from vacuuming, as it may stir up particles and worsen indoor air quality.

What You Can Do

While not everyone can fight the fires, individuals can take steps to protect themselves and their families. Reducing time spent outdoors and using a respirator mask when necessary are effective ways to mitigate exposure to contaminated air. Ongoing support is crucial for California’s recovery, and the impact of these wildfires extends far beyond the state’s borders.

If you need professional help with smoke odor removal or fire damage repair, contact PuroClean of San Clemente office.”