Breathing Through the LA Fires: Keeping your Voice and Lungs Healthy
As LA grapples with devastating fires, we are facing an impact to our air, water, and mental health. The smoke, soot, and ash filling the air are loaded with particulates and chemicals that cause real harm. While information is still evolving, here are some tips based on what we do know.
What’s in the Air?
Wildfire smoke affects your entire body.
Particulate Matter (PM): Tiny particles like PM2.5 and PM10 can land in your lungs and even be absorbed your bloodstream, affecting your heart, brain and other organs.
Hazardous Air Pollutants: These are the unseen dangers not accounted for in the Air Quality Index (AQI), including toxic chemicals from burning plastics, electronics, and more.
Pro Tip: Check out airnow.gov or the EPA’s fire and smoke map at fire.airnow.gov for real-time air quality updates. These measures include PM2.5 and 10 as well as ozone and carbon monoxide but is a good indicator of when to mask and take other measures like avoiding outdoor exercise.
Why the AQI Isn’t the Full Story
The AQI is a great starting point, but it doesn’t measure everything, especially chemicals like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals. If the AQI looks good but you can still smell smoke or see ash, trust your senses—it’s likely not safe.
Quick Tips for Monitoring Air Quality:
Look for government-monitored data for the most reliable info.
Use apps like South Coast Air Quality Management District’s tools for hyperlocal updates.
The Hidden Dangers of Ash
Ash can have chemicals adherent to it, in addition to its inherent toxic properties. It contains asbestos, lead, and VOCs when urban locations are part of the fire zone. Whether it’s on your car, your lawn, or your outdoor furniture, it’s important to handle it safely.
Wet It Down: Use a hose to dampen ash before cleaning to avoid kicking it back into the air.
Mask Up: Wear an N95 or KN95 mask while cleaning.
No Leaf Blowers: These just send ash particles flying everywhere.
Ash-approved HEPA vacuums will reduce reintroducing indoor ash into the air as you vacuum.
Health Risks You Should Know
The health impacts of wildfire smoke go beyond just coughing and wheezing.
Respiratory Issues: Asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia are common during wildfire events. Those with asthma, COPD and chronic bronchitis are at risk for worsened lung health.
Heart Problems: PM2.5 exposure can lead to heart attacks and abnormal rhythms, especially in people over 65 or with pre-existing conditions.
Long-Term Effects: Chronic exposure can affect brain health, focus, and even increase the risk of dementia later in life.
Kids Are Especially Vulnerable. Their lungs are still developing, so limit outdoor play and keep them in spaces with purified air.
What About Water?
The fires don’t just pollute the air—they can contaminate water systems, too. VOCs like benzene can leach into pipes, making tap water unsafe. Boiling water won’t help with these chemicals, so pay attention to local advisories and avoid using water from fire-affected areas.
Staying Safe Indoors
Upgrade Your Filters: Use MERV-13 or higher air filters in your home.
Seal It Up: Close windows and doors to keep smoke out.
Create a Clean Room: Use an air purifier with an active charcoal filter to create a safe space, especially for kids.
PPE: Not Just for Firefighters
If you’re cleaning up or spending time outdoors, gear up:
Masks: N95 or KN95 masks are a must, but they don’t block all toxins. For heavy exposure, consider a full-face respirator with P100 filters.
Clothing: Wear long sleeves, gloves, and goggles to protect your skin and eyes.
Shoes: Wipe down shoes before entering your home to avoid tracking in contaminant
Vocal Tips
Think of vocalizing like exercise.
Air quality: If the AQI indicates you should not be exercising outdoors, you should not be singing outdoors. If the AQI is elevated in an area, it's likely a reason to cancel a gig.
Sinus Rinse: Particulate that lands in your nose's filtration system will result in increased mucous production. Rinsing will help to clear the mucous and limit postnasal drip.
Masks: N95 or KN95 in areas with AQI warnings will help protect your lungs to avoid reactive airway inflammation.
Teas, lozenges and gargles: not likely to have a significant benefit at this time. If your throat is sore, get checked to see what can be done to manage inflammation.
Mental health and muscular health: Emotional impact is often felt in the voice and throat musculature. Laryngeal massage, meditation, and gentle vocalizing can relax the muscles and make your voice recover faster.
More Resources
Experts compare this disaster to 9/11, where the rush to rebuild led to long-term health consequences for thousands. Even if the fires stop today, the ash and toxins will linger for months—possibly years. Here are further resources to protect yourself and your loved ones.
There’s no such thing as zero risk during events like these, but staying informed and taking precautions can make a huge difference. Monitor air quality, trust your senses, and don’t hesitate to advocate for safer cleanup practices in your community.
Stay safe, LA. Your health—and your voice—matter.
