Reduce exposure to smoke from an external fire

Why it matters

Smoke from a distant fire can enter a home; ordinary masks do not block all harmful gases and opening windows can admit more smoke.

What to do

1. Check official information and the smoke source; respond to a fire alarm or smoke in your building under its fire instructions.
2. Only for outside smoke affecting an otherwise safe home, close windows and follow official advice; a fire in your building requires fire-escape instructions.
3. During external smoke, use air-conditioning recirculation if safe; find safe shelter if smoke enters, and seek urgent help for breathing difficulty.

Sources and review

• Department of Health, Centre for Health Protection — CHP: health advice on fire smoke
  Last reviewed: 2026-09-20

This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.