Healthy Air Guide

PRESENTS

Hazy Days, Healthy Ways

By Michelle Lopez

As summer winds down, August often brings more than just hot, humid days – it can also bring poor air quality. Air quality is typically worse during two distinct times and two distinct seasons. Emissions get trapped near the ground by cool, stable air, preventing pollutants from rising and dispersing during early morning hours and again during hot summer afternoons, when sunlight converts those emissions into ground-level ozone. Hot, sunny days can also mean stagnant air and rising pollution levels that impact how the air actually feels, as well as how it affects your body. Poor air quality can affect anyone, but poses the greatest risk to children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with co-morbidities such as asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions. The good news is that a few simple precautions and understanding how to respond can help you to protect your health.  

Stay Informed – Check your local Air Quality Index (AQI) forecast regularly, especially when pollution alerts are issued. The higher the AQI value, the more significant the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern. The index is also broken down into six color-coded categories. An AQI value less than 50 or an AQI color of green indicates the air quality is satisfactory and air pollution poses little or no risk.  

Reduce Exposure – When air quality is unhealthy, limit the time you spend outdoors, particularly if you are exercising or performing strenuous work. Physical activity increases the amount of air you breathe, which can thereby increase your exposure to harmful pollutants. If you have respiratory issues, stay indoors during high-pollution days. Move your workout indoors, like walking in the mall or using a gym. Even if the air forecasts are green, avoid high-traffic areas because vehicles can create high pollution levels. If you must be in polluted or smoky conditions, wear a properly fitted N95 respirator to reduce exposure to fine particles.  

Keep Indoor Air Clean – Close windows and doors when outdoor pollution levels are high. Use a high-efficiency air purifier with a HEPA filter. Avoid activities that can worsen indoor air, such as burning candles, smoking, or using wood-burning fireplaces during these high-pollution events.       

Be Prepared – Those with chronic lung conditions such as asthma should keep prescribed medications readily available and follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations. If symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain develop, seek medical attention promptly. Also, staying well hydrated will keep your airways moist and your body functioning at its best. Check on family, friends, pets, and neighbors who may be vulnerable to these conditions.  

Be Proactive – Use alternatives to driving your car, such as walking, biking, or carpooling. Don’t burn wood or trash. Opt for electric or hand-powered landscaping equipment rather than gasoline-powered.  

Poor air quality may be out of control, but how we respond to it is not. While individuals can take steps to protect themselves, improving air quality is a shared responsibility. Reducing vehicle emissions, conserving energy, supporting clean energy initiatives, and protecting natural ecosystems all contribute to healthier air over time. A little awareness today can help you and everyone else breathe easier tomorrow. Your life and the lives of people you love may depend on it. 

Live Well!