When smoke moves in, it’s important to protect the air in your home. Here are some ideas to improve the air you are breathing inside right now:
1. Lock out smoke
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Close doors and windows
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Seal off any big gaps that might be letting in outdoor air (use tape, rolled towels, or weatherization plastic)
**People in homes that are too warm to stay inside with the windows closed, or who are at-risk of smoke-related health effects, should seek shelter elsewhere.**
2. Filter your air
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Filter the air using an air cleaner or setting your AC/furnace to fan/recirculate mode with a MERV 13 filter. Watch this video to find out how to replace your filter.
3. Make a clean air room
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Choose an interior room with few windows and doors that all family members can fit in
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Keep windows and doors closed
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Use an air cleaner to help remove harmful particles from the air
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For additional information, see the EPA’s tips to create a clean room
4. Keep your air fresher
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Do not burn anything, including candles, incense, cigarettes or gas stoves
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Avoid frying or broiling when cooking
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Do not vacuum
