WISCONSIN (CBS 58) — As hazardous air quality continues to affect Wisconsin, health experts say the best way to protect yourself is to stay indoors and limit exposure to smoky air.

Doctors recommend keeping windows and doors closed and running central air conditioning, if available, to help recirculate cleaner indoor air. Homeowners should also ensure their HVAC or furnace system has a clean filter, ideally with a MERV rating of 13 if the system is compatible.

Those using window air conditioners should use the recirculate or fan setting, make sure the filter is clean and check that the unit is well-sealed to prevent smoky air from entering the home.

Experts also recommend using a HEPA, or high-efficiency particulate air, purifier to help remove fine smoke particles from indoor air.

"If you have an air purifier or air filter, this is the time to run it, especially if it's rated to remove particles that are PM 2.5 microns," said Dr. Mark Moss, an allergist with UW Health. "These particles are exceedingly small."

When driving, officials recommend keeping windows closed, running the air conditioning and using the recirculate setting to reduce smoke entering the vehicle.

If you must spend time outdoors, an N95 respirator can help reduce exposure to harmful smoke particles.

The smoky conditions can also affect pets. Veterinarians recommend keeping animals indoors as much as possible and limiting dogs to brief trips outside for bathroom breaks. Birds are especially vulnerable to poor air quality.

Pet owners should watch for signs of smoke-related illness, including coughing, rapid breathing or a decrease in eating or drinking, and contact a veterinarian if those symptoms develop.