A Code Orange air quality alert remains in effect for Southeastern Pennsylvania. As of 8am, air quality levels in the region are moderate (51-100) to unhealthy for sensitive groups (101-150).
Air quality levels are forecasted to remain between moderate and unhealthy for sensitive populations throughout the weekend. Continue to monitor the air quality in your area by using www.airnow.gov or the AirNow Mobile App | AirNow.gov. Follow recommendations protecting your health based on your personal health risks using this guidance.
At moderate air quality levels (51-100):
- Individuals who are unusually sensitive to particle pollution should consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense. Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. These are signs to take it easier.
- All others do not need to take precautions.
At air quality levels that are unhealthy for sensitive populations (101-150):
- Sensitive groups should make outdoor activities shorter and less intense. It's OK to be active outdoors, but take more breaks. Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.
- People with asthma should follow their asthma action plan and keep quick relief medicine handy.
- People with heart disease should monitor for symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue may indicate a serious problem. If you have any of these, contact your health care provider.
- All others can go outdoors and open windows if no smoke can be smelled or seen.
Guidance on limiting exposure
The Montgomery County Office of Public Health urges residents to take precautions based on their level of risk or sensitivity to avoid the following health effects from small particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Precautions include:
- Limit or avoid time outdoors: Use this guide to determine the best course of action for you based on your health risks. For those who are staying indoors, 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 of us have 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 the most likely to be affected by particle pollution exposure.
Exposure to small particles can affect both your lungs and your heart. Numerous scientific studies have linked particle pollution exposure to a variety of problems, including:
- premature death in people with heart or lung disease
- nonfatal 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 alerts through ReadyMontco at: https://www.montgomerycountypa.gov/3311/ReadyMontco
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.
No comments:
Post a Comment