Vital Tips to Safeguard Your Health from Wildfire Smoke and Ash: A Guide for Cleaning and Maintenance

California faces dangerous wildfires, especially in Los Angeles. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is reminding everyone to stay safe from smoke and ash. If you’re in an affected area, try to stay indoors and limit outdoor activities. Wildfire smoke can be harmful, so it’s vital to check your local air quality index (AQI) at EPA AirNow.

Dr. Tomás Aragón, director of CDPH, emphasizes that smoke poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with respiratory conditions. It’s crucial for these groups to stay indoors and minimize outdoor efforts.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that irritate the respiratory system. These particles can cause symptoms like coughing, a runny nose, phlegm, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Smoke can also lead to eye irritation and worsen asthma symptoms. Individuals with existing lung or heart issues should stay indoors to protect their health.

If you must work outside while smoke is present, wear a high-quality mask (like an N95 or P100). Consult your doctor if you have lung or heart issues before using a respirator, as it can be harder to breathe while wearing one.

In case of evacuation orders, always listen to local officials. You can usually find the latest evacuation information through local news and the official social media accounts of emergency services.

Here are some tips from CDPH to stay safe during wildfire smoke events:

• Stay indoors. Keep your windows and doors closed to maintain good air quality.
• Adjust your AC. Set it to recirculate air to prevent outside smoke from coming in.
• Avoid indoor pollutants. Stay away from smoking, burning candles, or using gas appliances to keep indoor air clean.
• Limit physical activity. Reduce exercise during smoky conditions as it increases your inhalation of pollutants.
• Be prepared to evacuate. Stay informed about fire conditions and follow evacuation orders promptly.
• Clean ash properly. Use a damp cloth to avoid putting ash into the air, and steer clear of using leaf blowers or dry sweeping.
• Wear protective gear. When cleaning ash, use a mask, gloves, and long clothing to protect your skin.
• Use HEPA-filter vacuums. Regular vacuums can release particles back into the air, so use a vacuum with a HEPA filter if you must clean.
• Watch your kids and pets. Ensure they don’t play with ash and wash any items they might touch.
• Prepare emergency supplies. Have a kit ready, including medications and important documents.
• Know nearby shelters. Look for evacuation centers that might allow pets.
• Seek medical help if needed. If you have chest pain, tightness, or trouble breathing, get medical help right away.

During wildfires, safety is the priority. If evacuation is ordered, please evacuate without delay.