Tips for Dealing with Wildfire Smoke in Montana – KPAX

MISSOULA – Wildfire season is here and with it comes the smoke that often forms in the Missoula Valley.

Smoke poses many health risks, particularly for people in vulnerable populations with chronic illnesses, the elderly, or those with asthma.

But even if you don't belong to a more vulnerable population, smoke can still have adverse health effects, especially if you spend time outdoors and use a lot of energy.
Small smoke particles enter the lungs and then the bloodstream, affecting overall health, mood and even sleep. So how can you protect yourself from smoke, especially when trying to escape indoors?

"If you have a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter, it can remove smoke particles from indoor air. And you can also build a DIY box fan filter with a MERV 13 or higher furnace filter and simply connect it to your truck. And these filters also remove smoke from the air," said Kerri Mueller, air quality specialist with Missoula Public Health.

In addition to creating these filters for your home, you can also use an N95 mask or respirator when you are outdoors for a long time. Be careful around heat, however, as heat-related illnesses often pose a greater risk than the smoke itself.

Visit https://www.montanawildfiresmoke.org/ for more information on how to stay safe and learn about smoking conditions.

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