safety
How to keep the air inside your home clean during wildfires
By Devi Shastri, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 19, 2026
· 4 min read
The eerie glow of an orange sun through thick wildfire smoke might be unnerving, but the biggest risk from the haze is something much harder to see. Tiny particles in the air can cause a range of short-term and chronic health issues, experts say.Wildfire smoke can settle over cities for days — li...
Key takeaway Tiny particles in the air can cause a range of short-term and chronic health issues, experts say.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
For San Antonio residents, the threat of wildfire smoke is a stark reminder of the importance of indoor air quality. As a community prone to drought and surrounded by wildland areas, it's crucial that residents take proactive steps to protect themselves from poor air quality. By following expert advice on maintaining and upgrading home air filtration systems, residents can create a safer indoor environment. The DIY air filter solution, in particular, offers a cost-effective and accessible option for those who may not have access to commercial air purifiers. As San Antonio continues to grow and develop, it's essential that residents prioritize indoor air quality, not just during wildfire events, but year-round. By taking these simple yet effective measures, residents can help mitigate the health risks associated with poor air quality and create a healthier living environment for themselves and their families.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 19, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 4 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The eerie glow of an orange sun through thick wildfire smoke might be unnerving, but the biggest risk from the haze is something much harder to see. Tiny particles in the air can cause a range of short-term and chronic health issues, experts say.Wildfire smoke can settle over cities for days — li...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 19, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Devi Shastri, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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