Navigating Cumberland's Smoky Skies: How to Protect Yourself and Your Car

By Trevor Wonders

The Canadian wildfires are casting a hazy shadow over Cumberland and the surrounding area. While we might be miles away from the flames, the air quality alerts are very real. When the sky turns gray and smells like a campfire, driving can become a little more complicated.
 

Fortunately, your vehicle can actually act as a safe haven from the smoke if you know how to use its features correctly. Here are a few essential tips for staying safe and breathing easy while on the road during poor air quality days.
 

If you only do one thing, do this: stop pulling outside air into your cabin. Look for the button on your climate control panel that shows an outline of a car with a U-turn arrow inside it. This is your air recirculation button.
 

When this is turned on, your car stops pulling in the smoky outside air and instead recirculates the cleaner air already inside the cabin. It’s the fastest way to keep the campfire smell out of your commute.
 

Your vehicle’s cabin air filter is its literal lung. It is responsible for trapping dust, pollen, and yes, smoke particles, before they reach your vents. However, if your filter is old or clogged, it won't be able to do its job effectively during heavy smoke events.
 

If you've noticed reduced airflow from your vents or lingering odors even when your windows are up, it might be time for a replacement. (Tip: Upgrading to a carbon-activated cabin filter can do wonders for neutralizing strong smoke odors!)
 

Wildfire smoke doesn't just irritate your lungs; it drastically reduces visibility. If you find yourself driving through a particularly thick patch of haze on the highway, treat it exactly like you would heavy fog.
 

Turn on your low beams. Do not use your high beams, as the bright light will simply reflect off the smoke particles and blind you.

Leave extra following distance. Give yourself plenty of time to react if the car in front of you brakes suddenly.
 

It’s not just about what you breathe, it’s also about your car's exterior. Wildfire ash is abrasive and contains chemicals that, when mixed with morning dew or a light rain, can become corrosive and damage your car's clear coat. Don't wipe dry ash off with a cloth, as it can scratch the paint. Instead, give your car a thorough wash and rinse once the air clears up to protect your vehicle's finish.
 

If you aren't sure how to check your cabin air filter or want to get it swapped out for a fresh one, our service team at Queen City Tire and Auto are ready to help. Schedule a quick service visit today, and let’s keep you breathing easy on the road!