Smoke from local and California fires is making the outside air quality frightful (excuse me, where are the mountains?), and your indoor air quality may be affected, too. Luckily, the air inside is a lot easier to control. Here are some of the best ways to breathe better in your home.
Hot tip: Real time air quality updates can be found at the Utah Department of Environmental Quality or Salt Lake County’s air quality map.
Don’t Light Candles
When there’s smoke outside, avoid creating smoke inside. That means no burning candles and incense for now, at least until fire season wraps!
Postpone Cleaning
We’re giving you permission to put off house cleaning for now. If your vacuum doesn’t have a HEPA filter, it can kick up dust particles.
Consider Getting an Air Purifier
Select an air purifier that is sized for the room it’s in and doesn’t generate ozone (that can make you sick!). The Environmental Protection Agency recommends putting your air filter on the highest setting during a smoke/wildfire event.
Or, DIY One
For around $30, you can DIY your own air purifier. All you’ll need is a box fan, HEPA filter, and some bungee cords. There’ve been a number of studies that prove its effectiveness. Check out this video for a step-by-step guide.
