As Salt Lake City heads into summer, the dry conditions that define our climate begin to pose a serious threat—wildfire smoke. You don’t have to live in the mountains or near a canyon to be affected. Every year, wind-driven wildfire smoke travels miles across the Wasatch Front, filling homes with hazardous particulates and lowering air quality citywide.
At 911 Restoration of Salt Lake City, we help homeowners get ahead of the season with pre-smoke prep, air quality assessments, and post-smoke cleanup services. The best time to act is now—before the fires begin.
Why Wildfire Smoke Is a Bigger Threat Than You Think
Smoke from wildfires contains more than just ash. It’s filled with:
- Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that penetrates deep into the lungs
- Carbon monoxide and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Toxic residue from burned plastics, metals, and chemicals
- Microscopic particles that can enter through HVAC systems, vents, and windows
Even homes located well outside of wildfire zones—like downtown Salt Lake, Sugar House, or Millcreek—are vulnerable when smoke travels on the wind.
Signs Your Home May Be Vulnerable to Smoke Intrusion
You may not realize how easily smoke can enter a home, especially older or poorly sealed ones. Common points of entry include:
- Drafty windows or doors
- Attic and crawl space vents
- HVAC systems without proper filters
- Chimneys, fireplaces, and flue pipes
- Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans
Even a small breach can allow smoke to infiltrate your home and linger for weeks, creating long-term health and odor issues.
How to Prepare Your Home Now
You don’t need to wait until a fire breaks out to protect your home. These steps can help reduce risk and improve resilience:
- Install HEPA filters in your HVAC system
- Seal gaps around windows and doors with weather stripping
- Close off unused vents and flues
- Upgrade to an air purifier with a true HEPA filter
- Clean out attic and crawl space vents to reduce debris buildup
- Have an evacuation and re-entry plan in case of heavy smoke exposure
These actions are most effective when done before the first Red Flag Warning hits Utah.
What to Do After a Smoke Event
If your home is exposed to wildfire smoke, it’s important to treat the damage like any other environmental hazard. At 911 Restoration of Salt Lake City, we provide:
- Professional air scrubbing and purification
- Ozone and hydroxyl treatment for odor removal
- Ductwork cleaning and filter replacement
- Surface decontamination of soot and residue
- Structural inspections to assess long-term impacts
Our certified technicians use specialized restoration equipment that goes far beyond standard household cleaners or plug-in air purifiers.
Protect Your Health—and Your Home’s Value
Wildfire smoke doesn’t just pose a respiratory threat. It can leave behind acidic particles that damage paint, corrode electronics, and lower property value if not properly cleaned.
If you live in Salt Lake City, you know smoke season isn’t a possibility—it’s a certainty. But with preparation and expert support, you can minimize the impact on your family and home.
Reach out through our contact form to schedule your pre-season smoke vulnerability check or post-exposure cleaning. We’re here 24/7 to help you breathe easier, no matter what the season brings.