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Each year, wildfires sweep across the United States with growing intensity. While the flames often capture headlines, the smoke that spreads for hundreds—even thousands—of miles poses a quieter but equally dangerous threat. Among those most vulnerable to its effects are children. From their still-developing lungs to their higher levels of outdoor activity, kids face unique risks when wildfire smoke fills the air. Understanding these risks—and knowing how to respond—can help parents protect their children’s health during wildfire season.
Wildfire smoke contains a mix of harmful gases and PM2.5 particles—tiny pollutants small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. For children, this is particularly concerning for several reasons:
Developing lungs: Children’s lungs and immune systems are still growing, making them more sensitive to pollutants.
Higher breathing rates: Kids breathe faster than adults, which means they inhale more air—and more smoke—per pound of body weight.
More outdoor activity: Children are often active outside, especially during summer when wildfires are most common, increasing exposure.
Pre-existing conditions: Kids with asthma or allergies may experience worsened symptoms and more frequent attacks when air quality declines.
These factors combine to make wildfire smoke a serious health hazard for children, even during short-term exposure.
Exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to both immediate and long-term health problems in children, including:
Respiratory issues: Coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath are common.
Asthma flare-ups: Emergency room visits spike for children with asthma during smoke events.
Eye and throat irritation: Burning eyes, sore throats, and headaches can develop quickly.
Reduced lung function: Prolonged exposure during developmental years may cause lasting impacts on lung growth.
Recent studies have even suggested links between frequent smoke exposure in youth and increased risks of chronic illnesses later in life.
While wildfires may be unavoidable, there are steps parents can take to protect their children when the skies turn smoky:
Check Air Quality Daily: Use tools like AirNow.gov or local weather apps to track AQI (Air Quality Index). Limit outdoor activity when AQI levels are unhealthy.
Keep Indoor Air Clean: Close windows, run HEPA air purifiers, and avoid activities that add pollutants indoors (like burning candles or frying food).
Create a Clean Air Room: Designate one room in the house with a purifier running constantly to ensure a safe breathing space for kids.
Use High-Quality Masks Outdoors: When outdoor exposure is unavoidable, children should wear properly fitted masks designed to filter fine particles. HALOmasks with Nanofiber™ technology filter out up to 98.8% of airborne pollutants, including wildfire smoke, while remaining comfortable for longer wear.
Plan Ahead for School and Sports: Work with schools, coaches, and caregivers to ensure kids aren’t forced to participate in outdoor activities during smoke events.
HALOmasks are uniquely suited to help families safeguard children during wildfire season:
Advanced Filtration: Nanofiber™ filters block smoke particles far smaller than the human eye can see.
Comfort and Breathability: Lightweight, reusable designs mean children are more likely to keep masks on.
Eco-Friendly Protection: With replaceable filters, HALOmasks cut down on waste compared to disposables—protecting both kids and the planet.
By combining comfort with lab-tested protection, HALOmasks provide parents with peace of mind when sending their kids to school, sports practice, or even just playing outside.
Children are our most precious responsibility, and protecting their health must come first. While wildfire smoke is a growing challenge in the U.S., parents can take proactive steps to reduce risks and safeguard their families. By staying informed, preparing homes, and equipping kids with the right tools—like HALOmasks—we can help them breathe easier through even the smokiest of days.
At HALOLIFE, we believe clean air should never be a privilege. Together, we can protect the next generation—one breath at a time.
We've found that weight selection is the easiest and
best way to make sure our masks fit you well.
X-Large | 200lbs+ | 90+kgs |
Large | 130lbs-199lbs | 59-90kgs |
Medium | 85lbs-129lbs | 39-58kgs |
Small | 30lbs-84lbs | 14-38kgs |
* NOTE: if unsure or between two weights, we recommend you chose the NEXT SIZE UP.
Catches over 99% of airborne particulates
On any manufacturer defect
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