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Tips to Maintain Air Quality During Wildfire Season
The EPA’s AirNow site and weather apps show current and forecast AQI, while HEPA purifiers and closed windows can help limit indoor pollution.
The Environmental Protection Agency provides the Air Quality Index to help Americans monitor air safety, with real-time data accessible via the AirNow website and integrated into smartphone weather apps.
As of 2026, the American Lung Association reports that 44% of Americans live in areas with unhealthy air pollution, affecting 152.3 million people and increasing risks for sensitive groups.
To protect indoor air, the EPA recommends using MERV 13 filters for improved particle filtration and wearing well-fitted N95 or KN95 masks when outdoor air quality is poor.
Creating a clean room by keeping windows and doors closed prevents smoke from entering, while running air conditioners on recirculate settings avoids pulling outdoor smoke inside.
Because wildfire season peaks from early July to early September, residents should monitor air quality trends regularly using AirNow across 24 hours to 30 days for timely protection.