SMOKY SUMMER SKIES: WHAT CAN YOU DO TO PROTECT YOURSELF?

Multiple states are experiencing poor air quality as plumes of smoke from the Canadian wildfires drift across the USA, mixing with ground-level ozone generated during summer heat.

That combination is unhealthy for everyone.  It's especially hard on children, the elderly, anyone with lung issues like asthma or COPD, and those with heart conditions.

Smoke particles in the air are very tiny - 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair - and they settle deep in the lungs, where they create problems.

WHAT CAN WE DO?  

► Keep windows and doors shut.

► Change or clean your HVAC filter on schedule.  Run a room-sized air purifier, making sure it's not the kind that generates ozone.



► Avoid strenuous activities (like mowing or jogging) if it looks hazy or smoky outside or your town's air quality levels are elevated.

► If you MUST be outside with a lung or heart condition, consider masking.  Paper or dust masks won't filter smoke particles.  N95 masks are best, but cloth is good too. 

► Don't add to the problem.  Avoid burning leaves or trash, and save the fire-pit S'mores-making for a day when your town's air quality is better.

► TAKE YOUR SWEET'S!  Elderberry reduces inflammation in your airways, calming them after breathing poor air.  It's also rich in antioxidants, which help your body get rid of toxins!