SPOKANE, Wash. — Air quality has reached the hazardous range in Spokane and many people may be wondering how to protect yourself from the smoke if you have to be outside. Health officials recommend wearing a mask or respirator rather than a bandana while outdoors.
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Masks that protect your lungs from smoke damage have the letter “N” followed by a number like 95 or 100. A N-95 or 100 mask will filter out most particles.
Masks should also have two straps for a better fit. Men with beards may need to be more cautious since beards may hinder the mask’s ability to form a seal, according to health experts.
These masks can help protect you from the smoke, but health experts encourage you to stay inside away from pollution when air quality reaches unhealthy or hazardous levels. Make sure to keep your windows and doors closed, too.
It may be tempting to open the windows and let the cooler air in but it could be hazardous to your health.