Current Air Quality: Good
Annual preparations for wildfire smoke impacts can help Whitman County residents mitigate the effects of wildfire smoke on their health and daily routines.
Health effects from smoke can vary greatly from person to person.
Smoke contains tiny particles that are bad for your lungs, heart, sinuses and other parts of your body. Those with underlying medical conditions like asthma feel them the most. But everybody should pay attention to their own health when smoke is in the air.
If it is challenging to maintain clean air at home, consider going to a friend's place, a public space with better ventilation, or an area unaffected by pollution.
Wear a well-fitted, NIOSH-approved particulate respirator, such as an N95 mask, when spending time outdoors. Ensure that the mask covers the nose and mouth adequately before use.
Close windows and doors, avoid activities that contribute to indoor air pollution (such as smoking or burning candles), and utilize air purifiers to filter indoor air.
Various sources such as vehicle exhaust, woodstove emissions, industrial emissions, wildfire smoke, windblown dust, and others release fine particles (PM2.5) that pose health risks.
The AQI categorizes air quality into six levels, each indicating different levels of potential health impacts:
Individuals with respiratory conditions, cardiac conditions or a history of stroke. Individuals who are children, elderly, pregnant, outdoor workers, or homeless.