Provo residents faced several challenging air quality days beginning Sept. 11, with smoke becoming a concern for residents in Utah County.
While wildfires are common to Utah residents, 2024's fire season raised potentially significant health risks. The harmful effects of wildfire smoke can be long lasting, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, triggering public awareness around wildfire safety.
Health concerns from wildfire smoke
Wildfire smoke particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Exposure to high levels of smoke particles can irritate the eyes and throat, worsen respiratory conditions and cause headaches and fatigue.
The Utah Department of Environmental Quality said smoke from wildfires can severely impact individuals with preexisting conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and heart disease.
“Smoke from wildfires could cause high concentrations of particulates. If smoke becomes thick, persons with existing heart or respiratory ailments should reduce physical exertion and outdoor activity," the Utah Department of Environmental Quality said.
"When the air quality is bad, it's hard to breathe, and I feel it for days after," Jake Whitworth, a BYU student with asthma, said. "I have to stay indoors, and even then, the air doesn't always feel clean."
Safety tips for coping with poor air quality
As wildfire season accelerates, it’s essential for Utah residents to take precautionary measures to minimize the health risks associated with prolonged smoke exposure, according to the Department of Environmental Quality. Strategies recommended by public health officials and environmental experts include:
- Stay informed: Regularly check air quality reports, such as the Utah Air Quality Index, which updates throughout the day. When the Utah Air Quality Index is in the "unhealthy" range, it's essential to limit outdoor activities, especially demanding exercise.
- Stay indoors: Reduce exposure to poor air quality by staying indoors as much as possible. Close windows and doors and use air conditioning with clean filters to help maintain air quality indoors.
- Use air purifiers: Invest in air purifiers with high efficiency particulate air filters, which can reduce indoor pollution and remove smoke particles. The Environmental Protection Agency suggests setting up a clean room — one designated area in your home with a portable air cleaner where you can take refuge during poor air-quality days.
- Wear masks: If you must go outside among hazardous air quality, consider using a respirator mask, such as an N95 or P100, which can help filter harmful matter.
- Stay hydrated and take care of your health: The Utah Department of Health advises drinking plenty of water to help your body process toxins. Those with respiratory conditions should be sure they have sufficient medication accessible and consult with their healthcare provider about adjusting treatment plans in the occurrence of poor air quality.
Residents are also encouraged to sign up for daily email alerts. For more safety information and to track air quality, visit air.utah.gov.