Wildfire smoke is blanketing much of the U.S. Here's how to protect yourself

Right now, hundreds of wildfires are burning in Canada. Wind has blown the smoke over cities, from Ottawa to New York City and beyond.

If you can see the haze outside your window, the sky is an unusual color or the air smells like campfire, it's best to stay indoors, if possible.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particulates, also known as PM2.5. These tiny, lightweight particles travel far and can go deep into your lungs and bloodstream, causing inflammation, heart attacks, strokes, asthma and other breathing issues.

Today on Short Wave, we bring you an episode of Life Kit, NPR's how-to podcast. Host Marielle Segarra and NPR producer Liz Baker share tips on how to protect yourself from wildfire smoke.

The audio portion of this episode was produced by Sylvie Douglis and edited by Meghan Keane.