The air we breathe is essential to our health and well-being. But did you know that the air quality in your neighborhood can vary greatly from day to day? This is especially true during fire season when smoke from wildfires can drift hundreds of miles.
That’s why it’s important to know how to check the air quality in your neighborhood. This will help you stay safe and healthy and make informed decisions about your outdoor activities.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to check the air quality in your neighborhood. I’ll also discuss the current smoke situation in the US and provide resources to help you stay informed.
How to Check the Air Quality
There are a few different ways to check the air quality in your neighborhood. You can:
- Use an air quality app. Many different air quality apps are available, such as AirNow, BreezoMeter, and PurpleAir. These apps use real-time data from air quality monitors to show your area’s current air quality.
- Check the EPA’s website. The EPA also has a website where you can check the air quality in your area. The website provides information on the Air Quality Index (AQI), which is a scale that measures the level of air pollution.
- Call your local air quality agency. If you’re concerned about the air quality in your neighborhood, you can call your local air quality agency. They will be able to provide you with more specific information about the air quality in your area.
Air Quality Alerts in Place for Millions of People in the US
Smoke from wildfires in Canada is drifting across the US, causing poor air quality in many areas. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued air quality alerts for over 120 million people in the Midwest and East Coast.
The alerts are for areas with “very unhealthy” air quality, which means that the smoke can cause serious health problems, especially for people with respiratory problems. The most affected areas are Cleveland, Chicago, Detroit, and Indianapolis. The alerts are expected to remain in place until the smoke clears.
What the Air Quality Alerts Mean for People
The air quality alerts mean that people in affected areas should take steps to protect their health. These steps include:
- Staying indoors as much as possible. If you must go outside, wear a mask that can filter out smoke particles.
- Avoid exercising outdoors. Exercise can increase your exposure to smoke particles.
- Closing your windows and doors. This will help to keep smoke out of your home.
- Using an air purifier. An air purifier can help to remove smoke particles from the air in your home.
