We all know that smoke haze from wildfires is bad and has the potential to cause various health issues. In researching for this article, it was overwhelming to read about the different chemicals which could be in wildfire smoke, and how toxic they are.
Smoke haze contains more than 1,000 different chemicals including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and microscopic particles known as soot or particulates. This haze also contains water vapor and oils. Two particulates which really surprised me are fungus and pollen.
According to a report from the Environmental Protection Agency, wildfire smoke can travel thousands of miles away from its original source. Wind, weather, terrain and a fire’s unpredictability make it difficult to predict how far smoke will travel.
These factors also make it hard to predict how the air quality will change from region to region, especially since the quality can change from hour to hour.
One example is the Durkee fire in Oregon was, at one point, the largest fire in the country and even created its own weather. The smoke from this fire traveled as far south as central Texas, and possibly further.
This means the smoke haze coming here from other parts of the continent is not only bringing in chemicals, but is also bringing in allergy-causing fungi and pollens.
Stay safe
Here are a few suggestions to help keep yourself and your pets safe from smoke haze and possible allergens.
For your pets keep them indoors as much as possible and keep their water dishes full of fresh, filtered water.
Brush their fur frequently and consider bathing them more often. If your pet has long hair cut it as short as possible so there will be less surface area to collect toxic particles and pollen from the haze. If your pet’s behaviors and/or attitudes seem different in any way contact your veterinarian.
Some suggestions for you and your family are to stay indoors as much as possible. Keep hydrated. Limit or eliminate mucous-forming foods such a dairy and wheat. The reason for this is mucous in the body acts like glue and will trap the microscopic particulates, keeping them inside of your body longer. Eat superfoods filled with antioxidants and consider taking extra supplements for your immune system.
Vacuum and dust frequently. If you do not have an air purifier consider investing in a HEPA one as it is more affordable than a hospital bill. Then instead of constantly purchasing new filters consider vacuuming and reusing the one you have. Since smoke haze contains water vapor consider using a dehumidifier along with the air purifier.
When you or a family member needs to be outside wear long-sleeved cotton tops and a hat to keep the ash from settling in your hair and the pores of your skin. Also consider wearing a mask to protect your lungs. Most experts agree that a N95 or EN-149 are the two best masks available for smoke haze protection. If you or a loved one has respiratory issues consider a respirator.
Do not hesitate to contact the experts like your veterinarian and primary care provider. Also for weather and air quality updates check sites like the National Weather Service and the state wildfire sites. Too many phone weather apps are inaccurate.
These are only a few suggestions for dealing with the hazards of wildfire smoke haze. Email us at with your thoughts (info@WellnessWithAge.com) and own suggestions for dealing with this haze. Your input is valuable to us. I personally answer each email.
Crystal Linn is a multi-published author and an award-winning poet. When not writing, or teaching workshops, she enjoys reading a good mystery, hiking, and sailing with friends and family. See crystallinn.com.
