Wildfire Smoke: How to Protect Yourself and Your Pet
Wildfire Smoke Can Affect Health and Safety
Wildfire smoke can have severe effects on individual and pet health, even when living or traveling far from the source of the blaze. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of checking local air quality and listening to local emergency management officials for guidance.
Reducing Exposure and Managing Smoke
Here are some tips to reduce exposure and manage smoke in your household:
- Choose a room to close off from outside air, and if possible, set up a portable air filter in it.
- Avoid burning anything indoors.
- Use central air conditioning with high-efficiency filters labeled "HEPA" or MERV 13.
- If you must go outside, wear an N95 or P100 mask with two straps to filter out smoke when breathing.
Symptoms of Breathing in Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Coughing
- Trouble breathing
- Wheezing
- Stinging eyes
- Scratchy throat
- Runny nose
- Irritated sinuses
- Headaches
- Chest pain
Who is Most at Risk
Several studies suggest that young children, especially those under the age of 4, are at high risk when the Air Quality Index goes above 100. Additionally, women who are pregnant and people with:
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Chronic kidney disease
are at high risk.
How Wildfire Smoke Impacts Pets
Keep your pets in the room with you, and contact your vet if they exhibit any of the following symptoms:
- Coughing or gagging
- Red or watery eyes
- Nasal discharge
- Trouble breathing
- Fatigue or weakness
- Disorientation
- Reduced appetite or thirst
Animals with heart or lung disease and older pets are especially at risk, as well as pet birds.
Conclusion
It is crucial to take measures to reduce exposure to wildfire smoke and manage its effects on your health and pet’s health. By following the tips outlined above, you can minimize the risks associated with wildfire smoke.
FAQs
Q: What is the best way to check air quality?
A: Check the Air Quality Index and listen to local emergency management officials for guidance.
Q: How do I reduce exposure to wildfire smoke?
A: Choose a room to close off, avoid burning anything indoors, use central air conditioning with high-efficiency filters, and wear an N95 or P100 mask when going outside.
Q: What are the symptoms of breathing in wildfire smoke?
A: Symptoms include coughing, trouble breathing, wheezing, stinging eyes, scratchy throat, runny nose, irritated sinuses, headaches, and chest pain.
Q: Who is most at risk from wildfire smoke?
A: Young children, women who are pregnant, and people with asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease are at high risk.
