SEDONA, Ariz. — The city of Sedona’s Sustainability Department has a new program offering free, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. The free filters are for residents who are vulnerable to the health impacts from poor air quality from smoke and other airborne pollutants.
Smoke and airborne particles from wildfires, prescribed burns, and dust from high winds can significantly affect air quality and pose greater health risks to certain people. Young children, older adults, people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, and outdoor workers can be at greater risk from the effects of poor air quality.
By providing free HEPA filters, the city aims to give residents a practical tool to improve indoor air quality and create cleaner indoor spaces when outdoor air quality deteriorates.
“We want to make sure that people who may be most affected by smoke, dust and other airborne pollutants have access to a simple and effective tool to protect the air inside their homes,” said Sustainability Coordinator, Zach Schwarz.
Residents who meet the program’s eligibility requirements can apply for a free HEPA filter. The program is intended to prioritize those most vulnerable to poor air quality and low-income households. Filters will be available while supplies last.
“Preparing for emergencies is about taking steps to reduce risks and to protect people who may be most vulnerable,” said city of Sedona Emergency Management Coordinator Chance Wnuck. “Having a HEPA filter available before smoke or dust affects our community can give people another layer of protection when air quality conditions change quickly,” said Wnuck.
For more information, contact Sustainability Coordinator Zach Schwarz, at zschwarz@sedonaaz.gov or call 928-203-5123.