PSA to everyone in California (or on the West Coast in general): I strongly suggest you go to Home Depot and pick up a pack of N95 or N99 respirators. They quickly sold out everywhere when Seattle had major fires, and even Amazon was backordered. You want ones with exhaust valves to facilitate comfortable breathing, and TWO straps, not earloops or a single strap! Surgical masks and bandannas don't make a good enough seal or have a tight enough weave to effectively filter out smoke.

Avoid fancy-looking neoprene fashion statement masks because they're generally bullshit.

If you have kids/elderly or asthmatics among your family *or your pets*, invest in HEPA air cleaners for your home. Pets need to breathe clean air, too!

And FYI, acute asthma attacks can kill, and kill quickly. If you have severe asthma or any other breathing issues, and you live on the west coast, consider carrying an epipen. An inhaler won't help you if you can't inhale it!

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Fire is unfortunately the new normal out here, so prepare accordingly and in advance.

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