(SOUTHERN COLORADO) — It’s that time of year again when we begin to see more wildfire smoke in the air. While we can’t help wildfires burning hundreds and even thousands of miles away, there are things you can do to improve the air quality in your own home.

According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDHPE), wildfire smoke can be dangerous to your health because it contains numerous chemicals. Some of those chemicals include carbon monoxide, particulates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to your respiratory system, especially for groups sensitive to smoke.

CDHPE suggests avoiding certain activities that can diminish the air quality in your home such as burning candles and vacuuming. Those living in Southern Colorado, especially those who are smoke-sensitive, are encouraged to stay indoors with doors and windows closed to improve air quality. CDHPE also says that running the air conditioning in your home and having standalone air filters with HEPA filtration can be helpful when dealing with wildfire smoke.