Wildfire smoke: the clean-air room

Smoke can travel far from a fire. Making one indoor space cleaner can help reduce exposure while sheltering inside. Before smoke arrives, choose a room where household members can spend time together and plan how to keep its air as clean as possible. Check local air-quality information and official instructions as conditions change.

A portable air cleaner can filter air in a single room. AirNow recommends choosing one appropriate for the room and running it as directed. Reduce indoor particle sources too: avoid smoking, candles and activities that add smoke or particles to the air. Keep windows and doors closed when outdoor air is smoky, while staying alert to heat. Follow local advice if indoor conditions become unsafe.

People with heart or lung disease, children, older adults and pregnant people may be at greater risk from smoke. Consider their needs in your plan, including any steps recommended by their clinician. A clean-air room is one way to reduce exposure, not a substitute for evacuation instructions or medical care. Review the official AirNow guidance below and keep checking local instructions rather than relying on a room setup alone.