Managing Wildfire Smoke: Tips for Cleaner Indoor Air

Wildfire smoke has enveloped large areas of the Midwest and Northeast, leading to severely degraded air quality. Health authorities advise minimizing outdoor activities or using masks for protection. Indoors, it’s crucial to keep windows and doors tightly closed to block smoke from entering.

Both in your home and car, running the air conditioning can aid in maintaining clean air. In vehicles, activate the air recirculation button to reuse inside air instead of pulling in smoky air from outside. This feature not only preserves air quality but also enhances cooling efficiency and fuel economy.

Home air conditioning systems generally recycle internal air. However, some systems might have a fresh air function, which should be disabled during smoky conditions. Dr. Brian Christman from Vanderbilt University advises switching to recirculate mode and ensuring air filters are well-maintained, preferably rated MERV 13 or higher.

If you have an air purifier, keep it running in the room where you spend the most time, advises Jennifer Stowell, a research scientist at Boston University. Covering cracks under doors with blankets or towels also helps maintain cleaner air indoors.

Hazardous air conditions are expected to persist in the Midwest and Northeast through Friday. Meteorologist Darrius Stringer notes that upcoming storms and rain may bring relief by Sunday, improving air quality significantly.