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Protect Your Health During the Poor Air Quality Days Due to the Canadian Wildfire Smoke

By now, you’ve all heard about, smelled, and seen the haze and smoke that have drifted down into parts of the Northeast from hundreds of Canadian wildfires.

As of this writing we are experiencing yet another “very unhealthy” air quality day with a current reading of “234” as measured by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index (AQI). We provide some basic information about air pollution and some tips as to how to stay safer during unhealthy air quality days.

What is the AQI and How does it work?

The Air Quality Index is the EPA’s index for reporting daily air quality. It uses color-coded categories and provides statements for each category that tell you about air quality in your area, which groups of people may be affected, and steps you can take to reduce your exposure to air pollution. It’s also used as the basis for air quality forecasts and current air quality reporting.

The AQI runs from 0 to 500 and the higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern. For example, an AQI value of 50 or below represents good air quality, while an AQI value over 300 represents hazardous air quality. AQI values at or below 100 are generally thought of as satisfactory. When AQI values are above 100, air quality is unhealthy: at first for certain sensitive groups of people, then for everyone as AQI values get higher.

airqualityindex

The AQI monitors five major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act. These include ground-level ozone, particle pollution (also known as particulate matter, including PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

The NowCast AQI

aqiEPA uses two algorithms, called “NowCasts,” to relate hourly readings from air quality monitors to the AQI for ozone and the AQI for particle pollution. It gives you the latest information on air quality where you are. Because air quality can change during the day, you can expect to see the NowCast AQI change, too. 

Check the NowCast AQI to see if now is a good time for your outdoor activity. Even on days when the AQI forecast isn’t good, there may be times during the day when air quality is OK for outdoor activity.

Download the AirNow Mobile App for updates on the go

To help you keep abreast of any warnings about current air quality, the EPA publishes AirNow Mobile App, a mobile app available for free on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

Key Facts to Know About Poor Air Quality from Particle Pollution Due to Wildfires

Particle pollution can cause serious health problems – including asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, and early death. And, it is not limited to any specific time of the year depending upon where you live. It can be a problem whenever.

Why is particle pollution a problem?

Particle pollution is linked to a number of health problems, including coughing, wheezing, reduced lung function, asthma attacks, heart attacks and strokes. It also is linked to early death.

Who’s at risk?

While it’s always smart to pay attention to air quality where you live, some people may be at greater risk from particle pollution. They include:

  • People with cardiovascular disease (diseases of the heart and blood vessels)
  • People with lung disease, including asthma and COPD.
  • Children and teenagers
  • Older adults
  • Research indicates that obesity or diabetes may increase risk.
  • New or expectant mothers may also want to take precautions to protect the health of their babies.

How can I protect myself?

Use the AQI forecast to plan outdoor activities. On days when the AQI forecast is unhealthy, take steps to reduce your exposure. Stay indoors with the doors and windows closed. In general, people should avoid strenuous activities and limit the amount of time you are active outdoors. If you need to be outside:

  • Take more breaks indoors if possible.
  • Shorten the length and intensity of any physical activity.
  • Spend less time near busy roads.
  • Don’t rely on dust masks for protection. If you must be outside, use a properly worn N95 mask for the best protection.

When particle levels are high outdoors, they can be high indoors. If the air conditioner is available, run it while keeping the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside. Additionally,

  • Don’t smoke tobacco or other products because smoking releases more pollution into the air.
  • Reduce your use of wood stoves and fireplaces, and don’t burn candles.
  • Use HEPA air filters and air cleaners designed to reduce particles.
  • Save vacuuming for another time. It stirs up particles already inside your home.

Don’t forget that many of the same tips apply to your pets as particle pollution due to wildfires can also be hazardous to their health. Keep them indoors as much as possible.

Additional Resources