Sick of the Idaho Wildfire Smoke? Try These Tips to Improve Your Indoor Air

Up until a few weeks ago, I never would have placed myself in the health group of people affected by mildly low air quality. We’ve had a few bad days where the air quality was listed as unhealthy for most people, but most of the days in the last month have only qualified as unhealthy for sensitive groups.

And most of the days in the last month, I have felt the effects of the smoke. Maybe the change comes with age and I’m now in a different health group, but I am indoors almost the entire day and I’m definitely not active outdoors, which is one of the suggested activities to avoid if you are feeling the effects of the smoke. Yet I still feel the burn in my eyes and nasal side effects.

With Wildfires Raging, Here’s How You can Improve the Air Quality in Your House

Yesterday, there were 142 new wildfires reported nationwide. I was outside a few nights ago and could see the ash falling to the ground and lightly coating my car. That’s when it made sense. Even if you don’t spend much time outside while the wildfires are raging, any time out there you could be sucking ash into your lungs. Other than wearing a mask, there’s not a lot you can do if you have to go outside.

But when you are indoors, there are a few easy things you can do to make your house a safe place from the smoke. And no, you don’t have to wear a mask while you’re making dinner or watching TV.

Currently, the air quality (AQI) in the Magic Valley is ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ which means you shouldn’t go outside for extended periods of time if you are sensitive to the air quality. Interestingly, the EPA says everyone else can ‘enjoy your outdoor activities’.

Have you been hit harder than normal by the air quality lately, even on the days where the AQI isn’t scientifically bad?