Wearing a well fitted protective mask can reduce how much smoke you breathe—especially when you need to be outside.
What works
- N95 or KN95 masks
These masks filter out fine smoke particles when they fit properly.
What doesn’t
- Cloth masks, bandanas, and surgical masks do not provide much protection against wildfire smoke. The particles in wildfire called PM 2.5 are small enough to fit through these options.
Where to find masks
- Local health departments or community organizations
- Schools, libraries, and community centers during smoke events
- Purchase masks at local hardware store
If you’re reusing a mask, replace it when it becomes damaged, dirty, or hard to breathe through.
