Respirator (N95/particulate)
Personal ProtectionA fitted mask that filters smoke, dust, and airborne particulates.
- Approx. cost
- $8–$40
- Weight
- ~1 oz
- Used in
- 2 kits
Purpose
Reduce inhalation of smoke and fine particulate during dirty work.
Used in kits
- Severe Weather Home Shelter Kit
Home Emergency
- Wildland Fire Crew Personal Gear Kit
Professional & Field Ops
Alternatives
- Half-face respirator— Reusable with cartridges for gases/vapors; needs fit and maintenance.
- Dust/face masks— Basic barrier; far less particulate protection.
Maintenance notes
- Replace when breathing gets hard or the mask is soiled.
Buying considerations
- Fit is everything — a leaking mask barely protects.
- N95 stops particulates, not gases or low oxygen.
⚠️ Safety notes
- A particulate mask does not protect against gases, vapors, or oxygen-deficient air. Wildland-fire smoke exposure is a serious hazard managed through training and SOPs, not a mask alone.
Page history & editing
Revision status: approved Last edited 2026-07-01 by human editor