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The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has declared a Code Red Air Quality Action Day for Wednesday June 28 due to several ongoing wildfires in eastern Canada.
Concentrations of smoke will continue to increase in the area throughout the day with the highest concentrations in the afternoon hours. A Code Orange Air Quality Alert is currently projected for Thursday June 29. You can monitor the air quality in your area here - www.airnow.gov or download the app. Follow recommendations to protect your health based on your personal health risks using this guidance.
Guidance on limiting exposure
The Montgomery County Office of Public Health recommends residents take precautions to avoid the following health effects from small particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Precautions are based on health risks, and may include:
- Limit or avoid time outdoors: Use this guide (Air quality Guide for Particle Pollution - EPA-452/F-23-002 (airnow.gov) to determine the best course of action for you based on your health risks. Guidance for schools and camps can be found here.
- Keep indoor air safe: For those who are staying indoors, close windows and if you have air conditioning and your system allows it, consider using the indoor recirculating function and/or installing a high efficiency filter.
- Avoid adding pollutants to the air: Avoid indoor and outdoor fires (for example fire pits and grills), frying, or other cooking methods that can generate smoke.
Masking: An N95 can provide some protection, however most masks that many use to help prevent spread of coronavirus will not provide protection due to the size of the pollutants. When air quality levels are unhealthy based on your health risks, limit your exposure by reducing or avoiding outdoor activity.
Potential health effects
People with heart or lung diseases, children, and older adults are most likely to be affected by particle pollution exposure.
Exposure to small particles can affect both your lungs and your heart. Scientific studies have linked particle pollution exposure to a variety of problems, including:
- Premature death in people with heart or lung disease
- Non-fatal heart attacks
- Irregular heartbeat
- Aggravated asthma
- Decreased lung function
- Increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing or difficulty breathing.
Stay informed by signing up for ReadyMontco alerts.
If you are experiencing severe shortness of breath or heart conditions, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you are experiencing minor or controllable symptoms, contact your health care provider.
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