Things to know about Air Quality & how to protect yourself
What is the Air Quality Index?
The Air Quality Index measures the density of five pollutants in the air: ground-level ozone, particulates, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. It was established by the Environmental Protection Agency as a way to communicate to Americans the state of the air they are breathing each day.
How do you read the Air Quality Index?
The index runs from 0 to 500; the higher the number, the worse the air. If the index is registering less than 100, then the air pollution at that location is below the level known to cause adverse health effects. When the index climbs above 100, the outdoor air may remain safe for many people, but older adults and children would be at some risk, as would people of any age with heart or lung disease. An. index number above 200 is considered “very unhealthy.”
Who is most at risk?
All children and adults with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are among the most vulnerable to toxins in smoke. Older adults and pregnant women are also at higher risk of serious health effects. These people should seek medical assistance if experiencing discomfort or heightened symptoms.
What are some of the harmful effects of poor air quality?
The effects of air pollution can be mild, like eye and throat irritation, or serious, including heart and respiratory issues. They can also linger even after the air has cleared, because pollution can cause inflammation of the lung tissue and can increase your vulnerability to infections. Even if the air quality is not listed as dangerous on a particular day, some experts say that you may still feel negative effects from pollutants ion the air.
How to Protect Your Health From Wildfire Smoke
Do masks work?
The best thing to do to prevent breathing in pollutants is to stay indoors. If you have to go outside, put on a mask. But a surgical mask, scarf or bandanna won’t do much to protect you from pollutants. Instead, use a N95 face mask or respirator mask. Cover both your nose and mouth.
How can I keep indoor air clean?
By some estimates, a good air filtration system can cut smoke pollution indoors by about 50 to 80%. If you have central air or an air-conditioning unit, close your windows and switch your system’s filtration settings to recirculate. Portable air purifiers with HEPA filters can work well in smaller spaces. Portable fans and ceiling fans can also help.
What should I do if I have a headache?
Breathing in wildfire smoke can cause headaches. To ward that off, restrict the amount of time you spend outdoors, and try to optimize the quality of your indoor air. The most effective treatment for headaches can vary from person to person, but over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or Advil can help. Staying hydrated is also critical.
Can I exercise or go for a run?
You probably shouldn’t, especially if you suffer from chronic respiratory conditions like asthma. During exercise, we largely breathe through our mouths, which — unlike noses — don’t have a natural filtration system for pollutants. Exercising in a highly polluted environment has been linked to cardiovascular health risks. Smoky conditions can also hinder visibility
What is the best way to track the latest pollution readings?
AirNow is a website and app run by the E.P.A. It has separate fire and smoke maps that use portable sensors to track smoke plumes, a useful tool to help you and your family avoid foul air from wildfires.
Source: nytimes.com
