If you’re anywhere west of Denver right now, you’re probably within a day’s drive of a wildfire. As of this month in 2024, there are 235 active wildfires in the US and around 400 in Canada. Nearly 40% of those are considered Large Incidents (>100 acres in forests, >300 acres in grasslands). The month's dry weather and high winds have left western skies full of ominous, pluming smoke - making outdoor activities dangerous as air quality levels spiral downward.
Exposure to wildfire smoke can have immediate health impacts, including respiratory issues, eye irritation, cardiovascular problems, headaches, and fatigue. Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic respiratory conditions, lung cancer, and cardiovascular diseases, with persistent exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) being particularly hazardous. Studies have shown a correlation between increased fire activity and higher rates of respiratory and cardiovascular issues, as well as certain cancers.
To navigate wildfire season safely, it’s crucial to monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) and take protective measures. The AQI ranges from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating more severe pollution and health risks.
| 0-50 (Good): | Air quality is satisfactory, posing little or no risk. |
| 51-100 (Moderate): | Air quality is acceptable; some pollutants may pose a moderate health concern for sensitive individuals. |
| 101-150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): | Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be affected. |
| 151-200 (Unhealthy): | Everyone may begin to experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. |
| 201-300 (Very Unhealthy): | Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health effects. |
| 301-500 (Hazardous): | Health warnings of emergency conditions. The entire population is more likely to be affected. |
When the AQI reaches higher levels, it's essential to take precautions, especially if you plan to exercise outdoors. Physical activities increase your breathing rate, which means you inhale more polluted air. It’s important to adjust your outdoor activities based on AQI readings to protect your health.
To check the status of current wildfires and see how they might be affecting air quality near you, visit the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) Current Wildfires Page.
Essential Gear for Navigating Wildfire Smoke
Respirator Masks:
- Why? These masks filter out 99.9% of airborne particles, including harmful fine particulate matter (PM2.5) found in wildfire smoke.
- Recommendation: Uncharted's M2 Masks are designed for maximum comfort and protection, ensuring you breathe easier and with confidence.
Air Purifier:
- Why? HEPA air purifiers can significantly improve indoor air quality by trapping harmful particles.
- Recommendation: I own this Conway Airmega HEPA purifier. It's quiet, compact, and the filters are easy to replace.
Portable Air Quality Monitors:
- Why? These devices allow you to measure the air quality in real-time, often providing more precise and localized readings than nearby sensors, helping you make informed decisions about outdoor activities.
- Recommendation: The IQAir AirVisual Pro provides accurate readings of PM2.5 levels and other pollutants, ensuring you stay informed.
Emergency Kits:
- Why? Having an emergency kit ready ensures you are prepared for sudden evacuations or extended periods of poor air quality.
- Recommendation: Our SEVENTY2® & SEVENTY2® Pro Survival Systems includes everything you need to survive the first 72 hours of an emergency, including a first aid kit, water filtration, and more. Packed and organized into a waterproof backpack, these kits are ready to go at a moment's notice.
Tips for Staying Safe During Wildfire Season
- Monitor AQI Regularly
- Use reliable sources like AirNow to keep updated on the air quality in your area.
- Stay Indoors
- When AQI levels are high, limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous ones. Stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed.
- Create a Clean Room
- Designate a room in your home to keep as free from smoke as possible. Use a portable air cleaner in this room.
- Use Car Air Filters
- When traveling by car, use the recirculate air feature to avoid bringing in outside smoke.
- Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water to help your body cope with smoke exposure.
By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful smoke and protect your health. Remember, staying informed and prepared is key during wildfire season.
To wrap up, we have some non-health related but extremely critical advice from the National Interagency Fire Center: keep your drones grounded! Unauthorized drone flights can interfere with aerial firefighting efforts, preventing aircraft from taking off or landing.
So far in 2024, there have been 13 public drone incursions that have shut down air operations. Support our firefighting heroes by ensuring they have clear skies to combat these fires effectively.
Header image provided by Public Health — Seattle & King County
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