Wildfire Smoke: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Health

When wildfires raged through Los Angeles in 2025, the property destruction looked like something out of a disaster movie. But the lingering health effects from wildfires can be all too real. The effects of wildfire smoke go beyond the visible haze, posing serious risks to respiratory and overall health. To help protect yourself and your loved ones during these emergencies, Dr. Hannah Gardener, an epidemiologist specializing in environmental health, shares practical, evidence-based tips.

Urban wildfires present unique health hazards. Unlike forest fires, urban wildfires involve burning homes, businesses, and vehicles, releasing a mix of toxic compounds such as heavy metals, asbestos, dioxins, benzene, and formaldehyde. Even fire retardants, while necessary, can pose long-term risks. Here are Dr. Gardener’s key recommendations:

• Protective Gear: Keep a supply of N95 masks on hand and wear one whenever you go outside, even if the air quality index (AQI) is moderate. Goggles can also protect your eyes from irritants.
• Air Purifiers: Use a HEPA air purifier with an activated carbon filter to improve indoor air quality. Avoid ionizing purifiers, which can worsen air quality. Dr. Gardener recommends the Austin Air Healthmate Plus as a top choice for wildfire smoke, which can be purchased from A Green Slate, with a special discount for the Umbra community*. 
• Nasal Care: Saline sprays can help clear irritants from your nasal passages and prevent congestion.
• Sealing Your Home: Use tape and plastic to seal off areas where outside air may enter.
• Cleaning Practices: Wash your hands, leave shoes at the door, and change clothes when coming inside to reduce the spread of particles. Regularly wet dust, mop, and vacuum with a HEPA vacuum to remove settled particles.
• Protect Vulnerable Groups: Babies, children, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions are particularly sensitive to smoke. When possible, consider temporary relocation for these groups.

Independent healthcare advocates can also play a critical role during environmental emergencies. They can help you navigate the healthcare system, find resources like masks and air purifiers, and offer guidance for managing pre-existing health conditions worsened by wildfire smoke. Advocates can assist families with vulnerable members by coordinating safe relocation plans or connecting you with community support services. Click here to connect with a healthcare advocate.

Protecting your health during a wildfire requires proactive measures and access to the right tools. By following Dr. Gardener’s guidance—from using N95 masks to investing in effective air purifiers—and seeking support from healthcare advocates, you can reduce exposure to harmful toxins and keep your family safe. Together, we can stay resilient and support each other through these environmental challenges.

^{*Umbra Health Advocacy is not affiliated with Austin Air Systems}