Recommended Free Tools
The most effective approach is to reduce the amount of smoke that enters the home and limit time spent breathing outdoor air. Check AirNow or local health and emergency alerts, keep windows and doors closed, designate a cleaner-air room, run a correctly sized low- or no-ozone portable air cleaner, and use a MERV 13 HVAC filter when the system can handle it. Avoid creating particles indoors. If going outside is unavoidable, a snug, NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 respirator can reduce fine-particle exposure; dust masks, surgical masks and bandanas are not equivalent. Children younger than 2 should not wear respirators. Anyone with asthma should follow their personal action plan, keep medicines available and seek care for worsening symptoms.
Why smoke requires extra caution for these groups
Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can reach deep into the lungs. Children breathe more air relative to their body size and their lungs are still developing. Adults aged about 65 and older are more likely to have heart or lung conditions that make smoke harder to tolerate. Asthma and other lung diseases can make airways react more strongly. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and AirNow identify these groups as higher risk.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Risk depends on the smoke concentration, how long someone is exposed, exertion, building leakage and existing health conditions. There is no single percentage reduction that applies to every home or mask. The controls below lower exposure, but they do not make smoky air harmless.
Make decisions from current air-quality information
Use the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map and local health or emergency alerts before deciding whether children, older adults or people with asthma should go outside. Conditions can change within hours as wind and fire behavior shift.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- When alerts describe unhealthy smoke, move exercise, play and errands indoors or postpone them.
- Use the cleanest available indoor location if the home is smoky, hot or affected by a power outage.
- Follow evacuation orders immediately; filtration is not a substitute for leaving an area that authorities say is unsafe.
- Check on older relatives, neighbors and anyone who lives alone, especially during prolonged smoke events.
Prepare before smoke arrives
Choose a cleaner-air room
Pick a room large enough for the people who may need to shelter there, preferably one with few windows and doors. Plan where a portable cleaner can sit with unobstructed intake and exhaust. Keep a way to monitor temperature because a closed room can become dangerously hot.
Gather filtration and supplies
- Buy a portable air cleaner sized for the room, with particle filtration and no intentional ozone generation. Keep spare filters because smoke loads them quickly.
- Check whether the central HVAC system can use MERV 13. If you are unsure, ask an HVAC professional; a filter that is too restrictive can reduce airflow or strain equipment.
- Keep prescribed asthma medicines, a written action plan, several days of food and water, batteries and phone chargers together.
- Know the locations of cooling centers, cleaner-air shelters and evacuation routes in case the home cannot stay both cool and clean.
Reduce smoke inside the home
Close openings and set HVAC correctly
- Close windows, exterior doors and fireplace dampers. Limit how often doors are opened.
- Set central heating or cooling to recirculate indoor air. Close the outdoor-air or fresh-air intake when the equipment allows it and outdoor smoke is heavy.
- Run the portable air cleaner continuously, preferably at the highest fan speed people can tolerate. Keep it away from walls, curtains and furniture that block airflow.
- Replace a loaded filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A visibly dirty filter or reduced airflow means it may need attention sooner.
If the home becomes too hot, seek a cooler cleaner-air location rather than opening windows to smoky conditions. People with asthma can be harmed by both smoke and overheating.
Stop indoor particle sources
Do not smoke or vape indoors. Avoid candles, incense, wood- or propane-burning stoves, aerosol sprays and activities that create dust. Do not vacuum smoke residue with a machine that lacks a HEPA filter; ordinary vacuuming can put settled particles back into the air. Cooking that produces substantial smoke should be postponed or done with effective venting only when it does not draw smoky outdoor air inside.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choosing a portable air cleaner or HVAC filter
EPA guidance indicates that portable cleaners and HVAC filters can reduce indoor smoke particles. Actual performance depends on room size, the cleaner’s airflow, how continuously it runs, building leakage and filter condition.
| Option | What to verify | Important limits |
|---|---|---|
| Portable air cleaner | Room-size or CADR rating, particle filter, tolerable noise, replacement-filter cost and certification that it does not intentionally generate ozone | Undersizing, blocked airflow or low fan settings reduce cleaning; filters require ongoing replacement |
| Central HVAC filter | MERV 13 or the highest compatible rating, correct dimensions and a snug fit around the frame | Not every system can handle MERV 13; excessive pressure can reduce airflow or damage equipment |
| DIY box-fan filter setup | Only use configurations and fans that the manufacturer or fire-safety authority considers safe | Improper assemblies can overheat or fail to filter effectively; they are not automatically equivalent to a tested cleaner |
When comparing portable units, prioritize particle-cleaning capacity for the actual room rather than marketing claims about whole-house coverage. Place the unit in the room where vulnerable people spend the most time and leave interior doors open only when that improves airflow without letting smoke in from a more polluted area.
Going outside: respirators, fit and age
Staying indoors is preferable during heavy smoke, but work, evacuation or essential care may require outdoor exposure. EPA states: “If you must be outside in smoky conditions, an N95 respirator reduces your exposure to the fine particles in smoke if it fits snugly to your face and does not leave gaps.”
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What to use
- Choose a NIOSH-approved N95 or P100 respirator with the approval information marked on the product or packaging.
- Two straps, a nose adjustment and a seal against the face are necessary for the intended protection. Facial hair, glasses, movement and an incorrect size can create leaks.
- Put the respirator on before entering smoke, check for leaks, and replace it when it is dirty, damaged, difficult to breathe through or no longer seals.
What does not provide equivalent protection
Bandanas, cloth face coverings, dust masks and surgical masks may reduce some large droplets or nuisance dust, but they do not seal well or reliably filter the fine particles in wildfire smoke. Do not treat them as substitutes for a NIOSH-approved respirator.
Children and respirator limitations
Children younger than 2 should not wear respirators. For older children, a respirator only helps if it fits and can be worn comfortably for the required period. Small faces may not achieve a seal, and a child who repeatedly removes the mask receives little benefit. Keep outdoor trips brief and avoid strenuous activity even when a respirator is worn.
Older adults and people with breathing disease
A respirator can make breathing feel harder. An older adult or someone with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or another breathing condition should ask a clinician whether a particular respirator is appropriate, especially if it is difficult to tolerate. Stop and move to cleaner air if dizziness, chest discomfort or severe breathlessness develops.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Guidance for children
- Keep play, sports and outdoor school activities indoors when AirNow or local officials report unhealthy smoke.
- Explain that windows stay closed and keep the cleaner-air room comfortable with quiet activities, books or games.
- Watch for coughing, wheezing, unusual tiredness, rapid breathing or difficulty speaking normally. A child with asthma should use the prescribed action plan rather than waiting for symptoms to become severe.
- Never leave a child in a parked vehicle, even briefly, while trying to avoid outdoor smoke. Vehicle temperatures can rise rapidly.
Guidance for older adults
- Plan medication refills, groceries and appointments before smoke becomes severe so unnecessary trips can be avoided.
- Ask a family member, neighbor or care service to check in during long events, particularly if the person lives alone or lacks air conditioning.
- Keep mobility aids, glasses and emergency contacts in the cleaner-air room so going outside is not required to retrieve them.
- People with heart or lung disease should discuss smoke plans with their clinician before fire season, including whether a respirator is tolerable.
Asthma-specific protection and warning signs
Follow the individual asthma action plan and the healthcare provider’s instructions. The CDC advises: “Follow your healthcare provider’s advice and your asthma action plan if you have one.” Keep quick-relief and other prescribed medicines available, and use them exactly as directed.
Contact a clinician promptly for
- Shortness of breath, wheezing or chest tightness that is new, persistent or worsening
- A cough that will not stop or symptoms that do not improve after following the action plan
- Needing quick-relief medicine more often than directed
- Reduced ability to walk, speak, sleep or perform normal activities because of breathing symptoms
Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, blue or gray lips or face, confusion, fainting, inability to speak in full sentences or any other emergency sign. Do not drive someone in severe distress if emergency responders are available.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Cars, workplaces and other unavoidable travel
In a vehicle, close the windows and use air-conditioning recirculate mode. Avoid idling in smoky areas and keep trips as short as possible. A vehicle cabin is not guaranteed to be smoke-free, so do not use a car as a substitute for a properly filtered indoor room.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
If work or caregiving must continue outdoors, ask whether tasks can be rescheduled, moved indoors or shortened. Take breaks in a cleaner-air area, reduce exertion and use a properly fitted NIOSH-approved respirator when appropriate. Employers should follow occupational-health requirements and provide suitable respiratory protection rather than relying on surgical masks.
Troubleshooting common problems
The room still smells smoky
Check that windows, doors and fireplace dampers are closed; confirm the HVAC system is recirculating; move the cleaner away from obstructions; and verify that its filter is installed correctly and not overloaded. A smell can persist even after particle levels fall because smoke residue remains on surfaces.
The air cleaner is too loud
Use the highest tolerable setting in the cleaner-air room, then lower the speed only if noise prevents people from staying there. A quieter undersized unit may clean less air than a properly sized unit operated at an effective speed.
The HVAC system cannot use MERV 13
Do not force an incompatible filter. Use the highest rating the system is designed to handle and rely on a correctly sized portable cleaner in the occupied room. Ask an HVAC professional if the equipment’s pressure limits or filter fit are uncertain.
Someone cannot tolerate an N95
Move the person indoors, shorten the exposure and reduce exertion. Older adults and people with breathing disease should ask a clinician about respirator choice before the next smoke event. A loose mask should not create false confidence.
Quick Recap
A simple smoke-event checklist
- Check AirNow and local alerts.
- Move vulnerable people and pets to the planned cleaner-air room.
- Close windows, doors and outdoor-air intakes; set HVAC to recirculate where appropriate.
- Run the correctly sized, low- or no-ozone portable cleaner continuously.
- Stop smoking, vaping, burning, spraying aerosols and dusty cleaning indoors.
- Cancel strenuous outdoor activity and postpone nonessential trips.
- Keep asthma medicines and action plans accessible.
- If outside is unavoidable, use a snug NIOSH-approved N95 or P100; never use a bandana or dust mask as an equivalent.
- Seek medical help for worsening breathing symptoms and call emergency services for severe symptoms.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
