How Los Angeles Residents Can Keep Safe During Wildfire Season

This is not medical advice.

Every year, wildfires across the West Coast blaze their way through millions of acres. In addition to ravaging the land, wildfires negatively affect the quality of air. Smoke from wildfires can drift hundreds of miles, and people living in urban areas such as Los Angeles are more likely to experience poor health on smoky days, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Exposure to smoke can cause headaches, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, coughing and more. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your smoke exposure.

Stay Updated On Air Quality In Los Angeles

It’s possible to be exposed to smoke from wildfires without seeing or even smelling it, so it’s important to stay updated on air quality. South Coast Air Quality Management District scientists have created a convenient way to track the current air quality index in Los Angeles or any neighboring city.

A map on the AQMD’s website or app shows you the index in the location of your choosing. The index can range from good to hazardous and is determined with a technique developed by AQMD scientists. Their method blends measurements from high-quality regulatory monitors, quality-controlled and calibrated low-cost sensors and an air quality model.

Avoid Smoke Exposure By Limiting Your Time Outdoors

One of the easiest ways you can stay safe this wildfire season is to stay indoors whenever possible. Even indoors there are still precautions you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. First, be sure to keep windows and doors closed whenever there is smoke outside. If you use an air conditioner, be sure to set it to recirculate, which prevents outdoor smoke from getting inside.

An air purifier is a great investment if you live in a city such as Los Angeles that is prone to wildfire smoke, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said. Air purifiers help reduce indoor air pollution. Be sure to select one that is approved not to generate ozone.

When Outdoors, Take Precautions

If you happen to be outdoors when air quality is affected by wildfire smoke, there are a handful of steps you can take to keep safe. You can use air quality maps to determine which times of day will be the least smoky. Be sure to wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose (preferably an N95 mask).

GoodRx Is Here To Help With Affordable Treatment Options

If you suffer from asthma, wildfire season can be particularly triggering as wildfire smoke is considered an inhaled irritant. Other inhaled irritants include tobacco smoke, perfume and air pollution. They can all make asthma symptoms worse. Asthma inhalers have drastically increased in price over the years, but GoodRx makes it easy to save on this medication and more.

The leading resource in health care savings, GoodRx allows users to see the exact price of medications at your neighborhood pharmacy using their search tool. You can also get free coupons for your prescription. Simply download the GoodRx app or show your pharmacist the coupon on your mobile device to save big.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of wildfire smoke exposure, GoodRx also allows you to virtually connect with a health care professional through GoodRx Care. Most visits are just $19, and you can connect with a licensed medical provider on anything from general health and preventative care to pre-diabetes testing.

Visit GoodRx today to save big on prescriptions, schedule a virtual visit with a specialist and more.