Smoke Safety
N95 masks recommended to protect against Canadian wildfire smoke covering the US, experts advise.
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Canadian wildfire smoke is blanketing much of the US, triggering air quality alerts across several states. Experts say wearing the right mask can make a real difference — but not just any mask will do. ABC7
The tiny particles in wildfire smoke, called PM2.5, are the main danger. They are 30 times smaller in diameter than a human hair. They can slip deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream. ABC7 New York
N95 Masks Block the Smoke, Surgical Masks Do Not
The best mask to wear is an N95, according to Kai Chen, associate professor of epidemiology at Yale School of Public Health. N95 masks are built to filter at least 95% of airborne particles. That includes the tiny PM2.5 particles from wildfire smoke. 6ABC
Surgical masks, on the other hand, will not protect you. They are not designed to block PM2.5. The particles are simply too small to be stopped by a standard surgical or cloth mask. Chen's advice is clear: if you go outside, wear an N95. ABC13
PM2.5 Smoke Particles Carry Serious Health Risks
Short-term exposure to PM2.5 can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation. It can also lead to coughing, sneezing, and shortness of breath. These effects can show up quickly, even after a single day of heavy smoke. ABC30
Long-term exposure is more serious. It has been linked to asthma and heart disease. People with existing respiratory or heart conditions face the highest risk. Children and the elderly are also especially vulnerable. ABC7 News
Staying Indoors With HEPA Filters Is Your Best Defense
Chen recommends closing your windows when smoke is heavy outside. He also suggests running a HEPA filter indoors. HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. These filters can trap tiny particles before you breathe them in. 6ABC
The goal is to keep indoor air as clean as possible. Even a short time outside in heavy smoke can expose you to harmful levels of PM2.5. Limiting outdoor activity during peak smoke hours is also a smart move. ABC7
At Least One City Is Handing Out Free N95 Masks
As smoke levels rise, at least one city has stepped in to help. Local officials are offering free N95 masks to residents to protect them from the dangerous air. ABC7 New York
Demand for N95 masks has spiked in recent days as smoke drifts south from Canada. If you can't find one locally, health officials say staying inside with windows shut and a HEPA filter running is the next best option. ABC13
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