N95 Respirator/Masks

Smoke is a mixture of gases fine particles from burning trees and other plant materials. One of the pollutants is known as Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5. PM2.5 is so small that several thousand of them could fit into the period at the end of this sentence.

During periods of unhealthy air quality, wearing a NIOSH-certified N95 respirator will filter out some of the small particles that may be found in smoke, but only if there is a good fit. The mask will not filter out toxic gases and vapors. The best way to protect yourself is to limit your exposure to smoke.

If you have a respirator, watch this video to make sure you are wearing your NIOSH-certified N95 respirator correctly.

Many local drug and hardware stores such as Big R carry NIOSH-certified N95 respirators.

Dust or paper masks will not protect against the smoke, you must use a NIOSH-certified N95 respirator. This certification will be clearly stated on the box. 

Klamath County Public Health and American Red Cross will be distributing masks TONIGHT (8/13) from 6:00PM to 7:00PM @ the Center for Occupational Health (2621 Crosby Avenue).

People with heart or respiratory diseases should only use a mask under a doctor’s supervision.