Wildfire season is right around the corner, and it’s not too early to prepare for smoky conditions.  Jennifer Horton, with the Oregon DEQ, suggests downloading the “Oregon Air” mobile app.

 

“Keep an eye on the air quality in your area and on any advisories that are being posted, because then you’ll be able to close your windows and doors at night, if there’s smoke expected to come in and impact your home."

 

Photo: Oregon DEQ
Photo: Oregon DEQ
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Horton also suggests people in fire-prone areas consider installing an in-home air filtration system.

 

“You can also make your own air filtration unit using a box fan and merv 13 filter. There are some great tutorials on that on OHA and EPA websites.”

 

Download Air Quality Apps For All Three NW States

 

By the way, it’s not just Oregon that has an app that can tell you about your air quality.  Idaho and Washington both have apps to let you know how the air quality is in your community, or statewide.  Go to your app store and search Oregon Air Quality, Idaho Air Quality or Washington Air Quality to get the alerts you want.

 

Several Midwestern states, primarily the Dakotas, have already dealt with poor air quality, due to numerous fires burning right in Canada.

 

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com 

 

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