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Multiple wildfires are currently ravaging Los Angeles County, but the fires’ immediate risk to residents, pets, and structures isn’t the only danger. Smoke is expected to linger over the metropolis for days, creating unsafe air quality for millions of residents. Because the smoke is coming from urban developments, as well as trees and brush, it could also contain chemicals from burnt synthetic materials.
The air quality index (AQI) for most of Los Angeles is above 100, as of writing, and several areas show an AQI above 150, meaning most of the air is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, and potentially harmful to the general public.
Fortunately, there are a couple of ways you can protect yourself from the pollution. The first is to wear a face mask that can filter out the smoke, dust, and harmful particles whipped up by the wildfires.
Scroll down to the bottom of this article for important resources if you’re fleeing the Los Angeles fires or looking to help.
N95 masks
IFM N95 Respirator Masks (25)
These IFM N95 masks are made in the USA and meet the latest NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) guidelines for use. The masks use three layers of filtration to filter out at least 95% of all non-oil-based airborne particles.
3M N95
3M Aura Particulate N95 Respirator (20)
These 3M face masks, meantime, are also NIOSH-approved and are used to help filter out smoke and smog. The contoured design fits comfortably over your nose and under the eyes, while a nose seal keeps the face mask in place.
respirator mask
BAOMAO Respirator Mask
Looking for something more powerful? This respirator mask is available for $20 on Amazon and is fitted with a double filtration system that can effectively remove gas, smoke, pollen, dust, and other particles in the air.
Typically used by construction workers, painters, and first responders, this is a powerful, industrial-strength face mask for smoke. It’s backed by great reviews too, with a 4.5-star rating (out of five) from thousands of verified users.
Air Filter
IQAir HealthPro Plus XE Air Purifier
Another way to help clear the air — literally and figuratively — is to pick up an air purifier for smoke. IQair has a number of industrial-strength air purifiers which range from medical-grade picks to options for the home.
air filter
LEVOIT Air Purifier
Looking for something a little less intense? We like this portable air purifier from Levoit. It’s powerful enough to refresh the air five times per hour, and its built-in HEPA filter eliminates up to 99.97% of harmful smoke, smog, dust, and allergens. This air purifier is small but mighty and works in rooms up to 1095 square feet.
Best of all: this air purifier is in stock at Amazon and delivers with free two-day shipping for Prime members. Regularly $99, an on-site coupon saves you an additional $10 right now, bringing the price down to $89. Get the deal here.
As wildfires continue to roar through coastal Pacific Palisades and Pasadena, we’ve put together a list of important resources to help those affected (along with ways you can assist). Click here to view more.
At a Glance: Shelters, Evacuation Centers, Additional Aid, and More:
• Westwood Recreation Center (pets welcomed)
1350 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90025
• El Camino Real Charter High School
5440 Valley Circle Blvd., Woodland Hills, CA 91367
• Pasadena Convention Center
300 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91101
• Airbnb.org and 211 LA, Free Temporary Housing
Start by filling out this intake form
• Agoura Animal Care Center
29525 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
• Uber (free rides to shelters, up to $40)
Use code WILDFIRE25
• Lyft (free rides to shelters, up to $25 off)
Use promo code: CAFIRERELIEF25
• Ritchie Valens Recreation Center
10736 Laurel Canyon Blvd., Pacoima, CA 91331
• Watch Duty App: Monitor fires
Whether you’re able to make a monetary donation or send medical supplies, here’s how to assist those in Los Angeles County:
• American Red Cross Los Angeles Region
This organization helps to provide disaster relief, food, shelter, and humanitarian aid to those in need. Find out how you can volunteer today.
• YMCA Locations in Koreatown
The YMCA in Koreatown is currently accepting donations of KN95 masks, along with tarps and tents. The drop-off location is: 433 S. Vermont Ave. in Los Angeles. Closes at 7 p.m.
• Wildfire Relief Fund
Donate to the Wildlife Relief Fund (a group that helps support wildlife conservation) through their GoFundMe page.
• California Fire Foundation
The California Fire Foundation helps support the families of fallen firefighters — through financial and emotional means. Donate at their page linked above.
• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank
Provide food and aid to those affected by the wildfires with the help of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. You can make a monetary donation of your choosing above.
• Baby2Baby
Baby2Baby is a non–profit organization that provides diapers, food, and formula to families in Los Angeles. Visit their website to make a donation or learn more.
• World Central Kitchen
Partnering alongside restaurants and food trucks, World Central Kitchen delivers meals to first responders assisting with the Los Angeles fires and their families. Support their cause with a one-time donation via the link above.
• Animal Wellness Foundation
The Animal Wellness Foundation is currently filling empty vet hospitals with pets that had to be left behind, along with providing them food and aid. Donate on their site.
• You’re Just My Type
An organization for those living with Type 1 Diabetes, You’re Just My Type is currently accepting supplies of life-saving insulin, CGMs, pumps, and more. To donate (or to get help), DM @yourejustmytype1 on Instagram.
• Pasadena Humane
Help treat injured animals with a donation to the Pasadena Humane. Click on the link above to learn more — every amount counts.
Daniel D`Amico for SANREMO.FM
