Managing Poor Air Quality Amid Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke has dramatically impacted air quality in the Midwest and Northeast of the U.S., creating conditions that health experts deem hazardous. In some areas, the air quality ranks among the worst globally. People are advised to remain indoors as much as possible or wear masks when outside.

To keep smoke from entering your home or car, experts suggest keeping windows and doors closed. Using air conditioning in both settings can help maintain clear air, but a particular feature is essential. In cars, the air recirculation button, which reuses the air inside rather than drawing in smoke-laden air from outside, should be activated. Besides keeping the air inside fresh, this feature can also provide a cooling effect and enhance fuel efficiency.

In homes, most AC units are designed to recycle indoor air. However, some models have a fresh air function. Dr. Brian Christman, a professor at Vanderbilt University, advises turning off this feature during smoky conditions. Adjust your unit to the recirculate mode to ensure cleaner indoor air. Additionally, experts recommend using filters rated as MERV 13 or higher for optimal performance.

To further safeguard indoor air quality, use blankets or towels to cover gaps such as door cracks. If available, run an air purifier, even a small room unit, focusing on the area where you spend most of your time. Boston University’s Jennifer Stowell highlights the effectiveness of air purifiers in maintaining cleaner air during such events.

The smoky conditions are expected to continue affecting the Midwest and Northeast regions through Friday. However, storms and rain anticipated by the weekend could significantly improve air quality. Nexstar meteorologist Darrius Stringer predicts that air conditions across most states will improve by Sunday.