DIY Air cleaners: Building community resilience against wildfire smoke

Northerners are no strangers to wildfire smoke. Each summer, many of our communities face weeks or even months of hazy skies and poor air quality. In our changing climate, we are seeing wildfires happening more often, they’re more extreme, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. Last August, a group of Prince George residents gathered to take air quality into their own hands – literally. At the Elder Citizens Recreation Association (ECRA), elder community members came together to learn how to build their own DIY air cleaners, a simple yet effective tool for improving indoor air quality during smoky periods.

The DIY air cleaner solution

DIY air cleaners are a cost-effective way to improve indoor air quality during wildfire season. These simple devices consist of a box fan, a MERV-13 furnace filter, and some cardboard or tape to secure the filter to the fan. When running, the fan pulls air through the filter, trapping harmful smoke particles and circulating cleaner air back into the room.

Building your own air cleaner can cost less than $50, making it an accessible option for many households. It's especially valuable for older adults, babies, children, people with respiratory or other chronic health conditions, and those who may not have access to or be able to afford commercial air purifiers.

Workshop participants learned how to assemble these cleaners step-by-step, gaining a practical skill to protect their health during smoky periods.

Planning the first Northern BC workshop

Simon Fraser University (SFU) and BC Lung Foundation’s BREATHE Project (Building Resilience to Emerging Airborne Threats and Heat Events) is a community-based initiative that teaches community leaders and members how to build DIY air cleaners to improve their indoor air quality. SFU contacted Northern Health (NH)’s Population and Public Health teams about DIY air cleaner workshops in June 2024, recognizing the need in the North. Northern Health acknowledged the value in such an opportunity right away and asked the Prince George Air Improvement Roundtable (PGAIR) to be a part of this great initiative, since the group has existing relationships and works to increase awareness and knowledge about air quality in the community and beyond.

Collaborating with partners amplified the collective effort. Event organizers recognized if one pilot workshop was completed, it could be a jumping off point for more workshops across the North. NH and PGAIR began securing funding and exploring options for a pilot workshop on short notice - the sooner the better. With local connections and availabilities explored, organizers landed on partnering with the Elder Citizen’s Recreation Association (ECRA) since the older adult population is one of the more susceptible groups to smoke exposure and the facility is very accessible. Organizers had two weeks to round up participants by the time the details were sorted.

Community workshop experience

On August 27, 2024, the ECRA in Prince George buzzed with activity as community members gathered for this unique workshop. Two sessions were offered, accommodating different schedules and ensuring broad community participation. Senior attendees worked together in small groups, guided by knowledgeable volunteers. As they assembled their air cleaners, the room filled with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.

The diverse group of participants highlighted the widespread interest in practical solutions for air quality issues. Many expressed how empowering it felt to create something that could protect their health and the health of their loved ones.

The hands-on approach allowed participants to leave with not just knowledge, but a functional air cleaner and the confidence to use it effectively during future wildfire smoke events.

Community impact and mental health benefits

The DIY air cleaner workshop did more than just provide practical skills; it fostered a sense of community resilience. In the wake of COVID-19 isolation, it offered a valuable opportunity for social connection. Participants and presenters shared stories, swapped tips, and formed new friendships while working towards a common goal.

This collaborative atmosphere had tangible mental health benefits. The workshop empowered community members to take control of their indoor air quality, reducing anxiety about future wildfire seasons. It also highlighted the importance of community support when facing environmental challenges.

For many, the experience went beyond building an air cleaner. It was about building confidence, connections, and a shared sense of preparedness for whatever smoky skies may bring.

Practical tips and considerations

Workshop participants learned essential safety tips for their DIY air cleaners. Proper placement is crucial: use the device on a hard surface, at least four feet from walls or furniture. For maximum effectiveness during wildfire events, close windows and use the cleaner in frequently occupied rooms.

Regular maintenance is key. Replace filters when visibly dirty, typically every 3-6 months. Remember, these cleaners are for temporary use during poor air quality events and don't address gaseous pollutants.

Different designs offer various benefits: cube designs (with four filters) clean air faster but are more expensive and noisier. To learn more about DIY air cleaners, please visit BCCDC’s Do-It-Yourself air cleaners fact sheet.

The BREATHE Project website has a Workshop Guide to assist in planning and organizing a similar event.

The DIY air cleaner workshop exemplifies Northern BC's community spirit when facing environmental challenges. By empowering residents with practical skills, we're hoping to build a more resilient region. This year, there are more workshops being rolled out across the NH region with support from the BREATHE project coordinators. We look forward to learning more about how this program can grow into more communities in Northern Health.

For more information on wildfire smoke, health, and DIY solutions, visit these helpful resources:

• Wildfire Smoke - BCCDC
• BREATHE: DIY Air Cleaners – BC Lung Foundation
• Wildfire Smoke & Lung Health – BC Lung Foundation
• Prince George Air Improvement Roundtable
• Do-it-yourself (DIY) air cleaners: Evidence on effectiveness and considerations for safe operation | National Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health | NCCEH - CCSNE

We are grateful to PGAIR, Northern Health, SFU, BC Lung Foundation’s BREATHE project, and the Prince George Elder Citizens Recreation Association for the time, expertise, and supportive funding they contributed towards making this event a success.

Interested? Host your own workshop!

Here are some considerations for planning an air cleaner workshop:

• Explore potential funding sources prior to planning an event (e.g. local businesses, charities, municipal governments, etc.), as some opportunities need approval months in advance.
• Secure venue or host details (e.g. contract or insurance details) and workshop supplies as soon as possible.
• Develop a communications plan and provide at least one month to advertise.
• Use a variety of communication methods and don’t be afraid to get out in the community (farmer’s markets, churches, thrift stores, etc.) to share posters or pamphlets (with permission).
• Consider logistics for participant registrations, supplies, storage, transportation, and workshop support.

It’s great to have a few more people to help with these tasks. Some participants may need an extra hand.