As California faces an unprecedented series of fires, I wanted to take a moment to share some thoughts and tips to help us all stay safe. This year, the fires have brought devastation to so many lives, and my heart goes out to everyone directly impacted. It’s a moment that reminds us of how interconnected we are—even when the fires feel far away, their effects reach us all, especially through the air we breathe.
As someone who has lived with asthma my entire life—and as a mother to a daughter who also has asthma—I’ve seen firsthand how dangerous poor air quality can be. Even here in Los Angeles proper, where it might seem like we’re removed from the flames, the smoke and ash don’t respect city boundaries. These fires impact everyone, and it’s so important to take health warnings seriously, no matter where you are.
Over the years, I’ve learned to pay attention to air quality warnings and take immediate steps to protect my family.
For anyone who might not be sure where to start, here’s what I’ve found helpful:
✓ Check air quality daily using apps like AirNow or PurpleAir.
✓ Wear an N95 mask outdoors on high-smoke days to protect your lungs.
✓ Keep indoor air clean by closing windows, using an air purifier, and avoiding anything that can add indoor pollutants like candles or gas stoves.
✓ Limit outdoor activity, especially for kids, seniors, and anyone with respiratory issues.
These small adjustments can make a big difference. When air quality is poor, it’s not just about comfort—it’s about protecting your health and the health of those around you.
But beyond health precautions, this is also a time for community. Fires don’t just affect the people in the evacuation zones—they ripple through all of us, and how we respond matters. Whether it’s reaching out to friends and family, donating to those who’ve lost everything, or sharing resources with neighbors, every action helps us stand stronger together.
I know this season is hard, but SoCal, we’re resilient. Together, we’ll get through this. Let’s stay informed, stay safe, and keep looking out for one another.
To everyone impacted by these fires—you’re not alone. We’ll rebuild, we’ll recover, and we’ll do it together.