Fire Danger

[handmeafish]

So there is a huge wild fire not very far from me right now, and its causing problems for my rats.
Its so hazy outside, its nuts. The whole place smells like campfire (which is honestly a huge upgrade) but I am worried about my boys getting sick because of it. I know i can feel it in my lungs, and they've started sneezing.
I have a window AC unit, and i've been keeping my windows shut, but even in my room everything smells like smoke.

Any suggestions, other than buying an expensive air purifier. I have a cheapy one but I can't run it much, or the fuses blow, with the AC on.

 

[victoria]

Do you have central AC? If you do, you may want to change the filter on the air redistribution system.

You can try to keep your eye out for a cheap air filter on CL... it may be really hard to find at a time like this though.

 

[hopefloats]

Spray vinegar water in the air it eats up odors also you can try to burn an uhscented candle I know they can help witn odors.

 

[handmeafish]

I'm worried less about smell and more about the actual ash in the air. We don't have central air, I've just got the window unit

 

[jorats]

You could put a very damp towel around the cage and hope the rats don't shred it.
That must be very scary for you too!

 

[Aida]

It might not do much now, but when it passes, you'll want to get rid of all the smoke as soon as possible. Sprinkle baking soda on all the material things(or at least in the rat room, ecpecially their fleece/etc.) and let it sit overnight, then vaccum it up. The baking soda will suck it all up.


Other than that, if you are really worried, you could board the ratties with a friend/family member/neighbor that has central AC? Good luck!

 

[handmeafish]

The winds seemed to have shifted, and the wet towels seemed to have really helped. No more sneezing from the boys

Hopefully they will be able to get this thing contained soon, and out. People are speculating that it might burn all sumer. So far its the most destructive fire in Colorado history.

 

[Kate476]

Stay safe! :?

 

[hprats]

Scary! It's been a while since I lived anywhere with the threat of wild fires...I hope they don't get too close to you (or any populated/residential areas!).

Good to know about the damp towels working. I'd never have thought of that, and it may come in handy one day!

 

[Dahlas]

glad the towels worked....what a scary situation.

 

[mamarat]

I'm glad the wet towels are working for the ratties. Hope the fire is put out soon or at least contained.

 

[SQ]

Glad you and the ratties are doing ok