Is this New York’s new normal? Wildfire smoke isn’t likely to go away this summer, meteorologists say

The federal Environmental Protection Agency said wildfire smoke can get into houses through open windows, ventilation and HVAC systems and through small cracks in and around open windows and doors. If you’re advised to stay indoors, the EPA suggests the following:

• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Close the outdoor air damper on window air conditioners or HVAC systems (or set HVAC systems to recirculate mode). Avoid using evaporative coolers or portable air conditioners. Keep seals between the window and devices as tight as possible.
• Use a portable air cleaner or high-efficiency air filter and run it as often as possible on the highest fan speed. A DIY air cleaner can be made by attaching one or two filters to a box fan.
• Avoid strenuous activities and activities that could worsen air quality such as smoking, frying food, burning candles or using gas, propane or wood-burning stoves.
• Create a “clean room” closed off from the rest of the house to spend time in.
• Have N95 masks on hand.

Once the air quality improves, the EPA recommends airing out the house by opening windows or the outdoor air intake on HVAC systems.