When wildfires strike, the aftermath can leave homes blanketed in ash, soot, and smoke residue, posing both health risks and challenges to property owners. For residents in wildfire-prone areas like Los Angeles County, knowing how to handle these situations safely and effectively is important. Here are actionable tips for smoke protection from the CEO of Green Planet Restoration, Efraim Haim. These tips will help protect your home and family before, during, and after any wildfire event.
Understanding the Risks
Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory distress and exacerbating chronic conditions such as asthma or heart disease. According to Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a pulmonary and critical care physician, this particulate matter can even enter the bloodstream, making it mandatory to minimize exposure.
The South Coast Air Quality Management Department warns that wildfire smoke can cause unhealthy air quality in areas many miles away from the fire. Smoke conditions can change rapidly, so it’s important to monitor air quality. Older adults, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with heart or lung diseases may be particularly sensitive to health risks from wildfire smoke.
According to Efraim Haim, who was recently interviewed by ABC7 Los Angeles News Channel, taking these proactive steps can help minimize smoke infiltration. As wildfires rage, poor air quality becomes a pressing concern. Here are the top tips on smoke protection.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Use masking tape or weather stripping to seal gaps and cracks. Placing damp towels under doors can further block smoke from entering.
- Create a Safe Room: Designate one room in your home as a “clean air” space. Use a portable high-efficiency or HEPA air cleaner while keeping doors and windows closed. This could be a bedroom or a space where you spend a lot of time. More information about air filters and air cleaners can be found on the South Coast AQMD’s fact sheet on indoor air filtration.
- Run Your Air Conditioner: If you have an air conditioner, make sure it has a clean filter and set it to recirculate indoor air to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. Avoid using a swamp cooler with an external air intake or a whole-house fan if you can stay cool without them.
- Avoid Combustion Sources: Do not use indoor or outdoor wood-burning appliances, such as fireplaces, or light candles and incense that could further degrade indoor air quality.
- Monitor Air Quality: Check local air quality updates frequently and adjust your activities accordingly. Limit outdoor physical activities and stay indoors with windows and doors closed.
Protecting your home from smoke damage is make-or-break, but if fire has already impacted your property, Green Planet Restoration of LA is here to help. Our team offers 24/7 emergency services, free estimates, and extensive support, including insurance claim assistance.
Safely Returning Home After Evacuation
If you’ve been evacuated, returning to a home covered in ash and soot requires caution. Here are some critical steps to ensure safety:
- Wear an N-95 Mask: This helps protect your lungs from inhaling toxic dust and particles. Avoid relying on surgical or cloth masks for protection.
- Minimize Tracking Ash Indoors: Lay down a clean towel at the entrance and avoid bringing soot into your living spaces.
- Avoid Sweeping: Sweeping stirs up hazardous dust. Instead, use a HEPA vacuum to remove loose particles, followed by a dry wipe of surfaces.
- Assess Smoke Damage: If your home has been significantly affected by smoke, consider hiring a smoke recovery expert.
The Green Planet Restoration Difference
Green Planet Restoration specializes in smoke odor removal and fire restoration services in Los Angeles. We offer professional solutions to remove smoke particles, purify odors from HVAC systems, and deodorize and sanitize affected areas, adhering to IICRC standards. We are recognized as a trusted name in providing 24/7 emergency smoke protection for homes and businesses in Southern California.
With over 17 years of experience, our technicians have guided numerous families through the recovery process after major wildfires like the Woolsey Fire.
Our experts recommend taking immediate action to prevent long-term damage and health risks. Whether it’s sealing up your home during a wildfire or professionally assessing and cleaning after one, we provide personalized solutions for every scenario.
Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind
Wildfires are an unfortunate reality for many Southern California residents. By taking proactive steps and seeking expert assistance for smoke protection when needed, you can protect both your home and your health. For professional smoke damage assessment and restoration services, contact Green Planet Restoration today for a free consultation.