Why Does It Smell Like Smoke Outside?

Canada wildfires that started in Quebec have been declared out of control for the past few weeks now. And the aftermath is just compounding its effect all over Canada and some parts of America.

Here’s a Tweet explaining the wind trajectory across the nation.

The smog is getting thicker by the day, with the worst Air Quality Index in the past few days. The blazing fires have made the smoke look orange, obscuring the streets.

But it’s not just the vision; people are experiencing a strong smell of smoke, like burning wood. The state has declared a high alert for the citizens living in NYC, Nova Scotia, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and a few more that are gradually getting affected.

Just yesterday, we reported unhealthy levels of air quality of around 217 to 272 across these regions.

The smoke is also carrying fine particulates of PM2.5 that can easily penetrate your body through respiration. People with pre-medical conditions like asthma are advised to take extra caution; some might even experience heart disease in severe cases.

Also, since the smog is a thick haze, it carries the existing chemicals and dirt in the air to the ground level, making direct contact with one’s system, which is why the burning wood smell is so perceptible.

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has declared an urgent Air Quality Health Advisory across the city until 11:59 p.m. on 9th June.

Here Are A Few Tips To Stay Healthy In High Air Pollution

1. The first precautionary measure is to remain indoors as much as possible. Only get out of the house when absolutely required. Moreover, the most preferable time would be during the early hours or late at night when the smog is slightly less intense.
2. A well-ventilated house is better for health. But when the outside air is itself so hazardous, it is better to keep the windows shut for a few more days.
3. You can even install a VRF or HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system at your home that will keep the room at a convenient temperature and purify the air periodically.
4. Limit certain activities such as burning candles, lighting a fireplace, smoking tobacco, and vacuuming. Also, be careful while cooking, don’t let the smoke from frying or broiling hover in your kitchen. If you smell gas, report it immediately and switch off the stoves.
5. Make sure you clean the filters on your AC and coolers so that they are not contaminated by outside air.
6. You may find your house covered with dust particles more frequently now. Dust your home daily, and ensure that you vacuum the fabric-covered furniture and any other porous material.
7. Invest in a high-quality air purifier. Use a humidifier if there is too much dryness in the room.

Tips When You Have To Go Outside

1. Wear a mask at all times, preferably N95 and KN95.
2. You can also wrap a scarf around your head to avoid the harmful chemicals and smoke particles damaging your hair and skin.
3. Wear full sleeves clothes, completely covering your body.
4. If you experience any trouble breathing, immediately call 911. People with heart conditions should keep monitoring their heart rate and oxygen levels before stepping out.
5. Always carry a water bottle with you. Stay hydrated to minimize the effect of this smoke on your body.
6. Asthma patients are advised to be equipped with inhalers when outside.
7. Overall just make sure that you have rare trips for chores and groceries. Simply buy in bulk for a few weeks.

What do you think of the rising smoke in NYC? Let us know in the comments section below if you have any more to add.