| Dear constituent,
With wildfire season underway, here is some important information about reducing your exposure and protecting your health. Summer wildfires are becoming increasingly more common in the U.S. and Canada. Even though large wildfires may occur hundreds or thousands of miles away, last summer showed us that we need to be prepared for severe smoke here in Michigan.
As of June 24, 2024, Canada reported 179 active wildfires, and the smoke from these fires has already prompted health warnings in multiple states. Similar to last year, we expect smoke from Canada to affect Michigan, leading to poor air quality.
While most symptoms of wildfire exposure are mild, exposure can weaken the immune system and may also exacerbate or increase the risk of asthma, lung cancer, and other chronic lung diseases.
Here are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family from wildfire smoke and air pollution:
- Stay informed: Monitor local air quality and follow air quality forecasts. You can use free resources like the AirNow Fire and Smoke map or the AirNow website, and receive real -time alerts through EnviroFlash.
- Seek shelter: When air quality in your area is low, stay inside as much as possible. If you do not have air conditioning and it’s too warm to stay indoors with the windows closed, seek shelter with family or friends, or in a public building with air conditioning such as a library or designated clean air shelter.
- Use respirators: Keep N95 or P100 respirators on hand to wear if you must go outside when air quality is unhealthy.
- Consider air cleaners: Use a portable air cleaner or make a DIY air cleaner.
- Adjust HVAC systems: Learn how to adjust your HVAC system or air conditioner to keep smoke out. Use high-efficiency filters (for example, those with a MERV-13 rating) and replace them regularly.
- Prepare supplies and medical action plans: Some individuals are at a higher risk, including those with asthma or other lung/heart conditions, children, older adults, and pregnant women. Ensure you have at least 5 days’ worth of medication and food on hand. Consider developing a medical action plan with your healthcare provider.
Lastly, you can visit the EPA and CDC websites for more detailed information and tips on how to stay safe if wildfire smoke ends up affecting us here in Michigan this summer.
– Office of Rep. Elissa Slotkin |
