Smoke Pollution Covers Parts of U.S. and Europe
Widespread smoke is affecting many areas of the United States and parts of Europe, creating health risks for residents. The air quality in the Midwest, Northeast, and Great Lakes regions has been labeled “very unhealthy” by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), prompting officials to advise caution.
Understanding Air Quality Levels
The EPA uses an Air Quality Index (AQI) to measure pollution levels. The index ranges from 0 to over 300; lower numbers indicate better air quality. An AQI below 50 is considered healthy, while numbers between 50 and 100 are moderate. Unfortunately, many places in the Upper Midwest have reported AQI numbers around 160, which poses risks to everyone.
Sensitive individuals, such as those with asthma or other lung conditions, are especially vulnerable. Dr. Sanjay Sethi, a medical expert, emphasizes the need for such individuals to be cautious, recommending that they either limit outdoor activity or use protective masks.
Identifying Poor Air Quality
Sometimes, the air quality can be bad enough that smoke is visible or smells strong. However, even if pollution is not directly noticeable, it can still be harmful to breathe. The EPA offers updated regional air quality information on its website, while other sources like PurpleAir provide detailed, street-level monitoring data.
For those interested in tracking indoor air quality, buying a personal monitor has become more affordable and widely available.
What to Do If You Must Go Outside
Experts assert that for most people, short outdoor excursions may not lead to long-term health issues. Wearing an N95 mask, which gained popularity during the pandemic, can effectively filter out harmful particles. If you experience symptoms like wheezing or shortness of breath, it’s advisable to seek shelter indoors or in areas with cleaner air.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
To combat poor air quality indoors, close windows and run your air conditioner in recirculate mode. Sealing any cracks that let outside air in, using blankets, can make a difference. Upgrading your air conditioner’s filter to a MERV 13 filter can enhance filtration. If you have an air purifier, keeping it running in your main living area can also help improve indoor air conditions.
In all, taking these simple steps can aid in managing exposure during periods of poor air quality, ensuring that families stay safe and healthy.
