I haven’t seen one of these yet so I’ll share some of my knowledge as a native Washingtonian to help save some people’s lungs
1) Stay inside!
this probably seems super obvious but it’s going to be the best thing you can do for yourself. Limit the amount of time you spend out doors by a lot. You might get a little stir crazy but it’s worth it.
2) Keep your windows and doors closed
Also might seem obvious, but you really want your home to have as little smoke in it as possible. If you do get smoke in your home try to shut it off to one part of the home if possible (e.g. if you left the window open in the office, close off the office from the rest of the house). If you’re able to, get an air filter for your home too to make sure you have a safe place to breathe.
3) Know what to do in your car
If you have to drive or live in your car, don’t run your ac unless your car can recirculate air (The button that looks like a car with an arrow inside). Otherwise your car will pull in smoke from the outside. If you’re living in your car tip 2 is especially important.
4) Get a mask
If you have a few dollars to spend I highly recommend getting a particulate respirator. They just look like typically face masks, not gas masks. Most supermarkets with a painting section or hardware stores have them. I was able to get a two pack for about 7 dollars. They filter out about 95% of debris in the air and are great for smokey air.
If you don’t have any extra money to spend most walk in doctors offices or pharmacies will give you a face mask if you ask for one. These aren’t as good because they don’t filter out as much stuff as the particulate respirators do, but they’re better than nothing.
5) Don’t add to the poor air quality
this might sound obvious on the surface, but things like lighting candles in your own home, running a gas stove, or even vacuuming (stirs up dust) can add to the already shitty air quality. Try not to do these things until the air clears up!
6) Get out of the region
This tip will not be accessible to a lot of people, but if you’re able to, get completely out of the region. Especially those who are young, pregnant, elderly, or already have pre-existing breathing problems should try to leave, as they will be the most susceptible to illness caused by smoke
7) Know when to get help
If you have access to a doctor, it’s super important to know when to go see them. If you have any symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, or other breathing problems go see your doctor! These will only get worse with the poor air quality and you should get them checked out as soon as you can. Signs of these can include tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing or catching your breath, wheezing, or getting tired easily.
If anyone else has any tips please feel free to add on to this!