Even if a wildfire isn’t in your backyard, the smoke it creates can still find its way into your home—and your lungs. When the wind shifts, it can carry smoke from hundreds of miles away, leading to poor air quality that can cause irritation, discomfort, and even serious health issues.
That’s why taking control of your indoor air quality (IAQ) is so important during wildfire season. With a few smart steps, you can protect your home’s air and keep your family breathing easier. Let’s walk through some practical ways to stay ahead of wildfire smoke and why managing IAQ matters more than ever in these situations.
How Do Wildfires Impact Indoor Air Quality?
A wildfire releases vast amounts of smoke, gas, and fine particulate matter into the atmosphere, which worsens air pollution and compromises indoor air quality. Tiny pollutants, such as carbon particles and dust, penetrate indoor spaces through infiltration via cracks, doors, and windows and greatly increase the risk of respiratory problems.
Exposure to these contaminants can lead to lung irritation and shortness of breath and exacerbate conditions like asthma and heart disease. In addition to combustion byproducts like carbon monoxide, wildfire smoke contains toxic compounds such as ozone, which can cause eye and throat irritation.
Poor ventilation and the presence of excessive humidity indoors can further trap these pollutants, leading to persistent odor and long-term health concerns. Taking proactive steps to improve air filter quality, manage temperature, and enhance air conditioning can help protect indoor environments during a fire event.
Several Ways You Can Improve Indoor IAQ During a Wildfire
- Seal Gaps and Openings
Prevent infiltration of polluted air by closing windows, doors, and vents. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal small openings around windows and door frames, as this will minimize your home’s exposure to harmful pollutants. Setting the air conditioning system to recirculate mode reduces outdoor air intake. - Upgrade Air Filtration
Using a high-quality air filter in the HVAC system helps capture fine particulate matter, including smoke and dust. A filter with a MERV 13 rating or higher is most effective at trapping pollutants. Regular replacement of filters maintains efficiency and prevents clogging. - Use a Portable Air Purifier
A portable air purifier with a HEPA filter removes wildfire pollutants, improving breathing conditions indoors. Some models include activated carbon filters to reduce odor and absorb toxic gases like carbon monoxide. Keeping air purifiers running continuously during a wildfire maximizes air cleaning performance. - Create a Clean Air Room
Set up a dedicated space where air quality is tightly controlled by keeping windows and doors shut. Use an air purifier and limit activities that generate air pollution, such as frying food or using aerosol sprays. Controlling humidity with a dehumidifier or humidifier helps maintain a balanced indoor environment. - Limit Indoor Air Pollutants
Avoid burning candles, using fireplaces, or running combustion appliances that could increase indoor gas and particulate levels. A vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter prevents the spread of fine dust during cleaning. Using fragrance-free cleaning products reduces unnecessary exposure to chemicals that can worsen cough and other respiratory symptoms. - Monitor Indoor Air Quality
Use an air quality sensor to measure pollutants such as carbon dioxide, ozone, and fine particulates. Monitoring data helps determine when additional filtration or adjustments to ventilation are necessary. Staying informed about air conditions is crucial, especially as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of forest fires.
For Professional IAQ Solutions, Call All American Heating
If you live in an area prone to wildfires and are concerned about the health and safety of the air you breathe, All American Heating has you covered. We offer indoor air quality services in Fairplay and other Colorado areas, as well as alarm and control services, to ensure your home is safe and your family is protected. Reach out today to speak with our team and schedule an appointment!