06/07/2023
Wind currents are bringing smoke from Canadian wildfires to our region. Smoke and air pollution can make it harder for people with asthma, other respiratory (breathing) diseases like COPD, and people with heart disease to breathe. Also, pregnant people, children and teens may also be more sensitive to air pollution's health effects.
There are steps you can take to reduce the amount of particle pollution you inhale - and to protect your heart:
📈 Know when and where particle pollution levels may be unhealthy. Particle pollution levels can be high at any time of the year, and they are higher than usual in our region right now.
💨 Check the Air Quality Index, which provides forecasts of daily air quality. This index provides six color-coded categories that show different levels of health concern for air pollution levels by state or zip code. (airnow.gov)
🏃♀️ Plan activities when and where pollution levels are lower. When particle levels outdoors are unhealthy, delay activity or exercise until the air is cleaner or move the activity indoors.
🏠 Change your activity level. When the air is polluted, reduce activity. Go for a walk rather than a jog, for example. Delay outdoor activity when the air is polluted or exercise indoors.
❤️ Know the warning signs of heart attack or stroke. If you feel symptoms, even if they go away, stop any activity and seek medical help immediately.
AirNow is your one-stop source for air quality data. Our recently redesigned site highlights air quality in your local area first, while still providing air quality information at state, national, and world views.