Blue Ridge Carry LeagueMountain-tested tips for everyday life

Getting Through Wildfire Smoke Days

Blue Ridge Carry League staff · 4 min read
Hazy mountain valley under a smoky orange sky

Even when a fire is far away, the smoke can settle into mountain valleys for days. Here's how to keep your home and lungs comfortable.

Check air quality

Use a free air quality app and plan outdoor work around it.

Keep the air in

Close windows and doors, and set your AC to recirculate.

Make a clean room

A portable air purifier in the bedroom gives you one room of cleaner air.

Limit hard work outside

Save the yard work and long walks for a clearer day.

Watch for symptoms

Coughing, headaches and shortness of breath mean it's time to head indoors. Call your doctor if they don't ease.

Older adults and anyone with heart or lung conditions should take smoke days especially seriously.