# AI advises staying inside a car with windows up and AC recirculation on during a wildfire to filter smoke

- **ID:** `disaster/wildfire-vehicle-cabin-air-filter-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 75%

## Root Cause

Vehicle cabin air filters are not designed to filter fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke; heat and radiant flux can melt seals, melt tires, and cause fuel vapor ignition, turning the car into a death trap.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| N/A | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **If trapped in a vehicle during wildfire, park in a clear area away from vegetation, close all windows and vents, turn off engine, get on the floor and cover yourself with a wool blanket or jacket. Call 911 and provide GPS coordinates.** (70% success)
   ```
   If trapped in a vehicle during wildfire, park in a clear area away from vegetation, close all windows and vents, turn off engine, get on the floor and cover yourself with a wool blanket or jacket. Call 911 and provide GPS coordinates.
   ```
2. **Abandon the vehicle if fire is approaching and you can reach a cleared area, low-lying ditch, or body of water. Do not stay inside unless no other option.** (80% success)
   ```
   Abandon the vehicle if fire is approaching and you can reach a cleared area, low-lying ditch, or body of water. Do not stay inside unless no other option.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **Roll up windows completely and set HVAC to recirculate mode** — Recirculation mode still allows smoke ingress through door seals and vents; heat buildup cracks windows and ignites interior materials. (90% fail)
- **Place wet towels around door frames to seal gaps** — Towels dry out rapidly in radiant heat, become flammable, and do not block fine particulate matter; they also trap heat inside. (85% fail)
- **Drive slowly through the fire front with headlights on** — Visibility near zero, tires may melt, fuel lines may rupture, and the engine may stall from oxygen deprivation. (95% fail)