This is a MontcoSAFER Notification
The Code Orange Air Quality alert issued on Thursday July 16th has now been UPGRADED to a Code Purple Air Quality Alert as a result of changing air quality conditions. You are receiving this message because you have signed up to receive air quality alerts for Montgomery County, PA through ReadyMontco.
AIR QUALITY HEALTH ALERT
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has declared a statewide Code Purple Air Quality Action Day for Particle Pollution for Friday, July 17, 2026, for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Wildfire smoke continues to impact Pennsylvania from Ontario, Canada and Minnesota, significantly deteriorating the air quality across Commonwealth.
Code Purple air quality is classified as very unhealthy for everyone. All people should limit or avoid outdoor activities. Pets and other animals should be kept indoors to the extent possible.
Guidance on Limiting Exposure
• Everyone: Limit outdoor physical activity and go indoors to cleaner air if experiencing symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath.
• Sensitive Groups: Individuals with chronic conditions such as heart and lung disease, older adults, children and teenagers, pregnant women, and people with limited ability to reduce exposures to outdoor air should avoid all physical activity outdoors.
• Keep indoor air safe by closing windows. If you have air conditioning and your system allows it, consider using the indoor recirculating function and/or installing a high efficiency filter. If you do not have air conditioning, staying inside with windows closed may be dangerous in hot weather. If you are hot, go someplace with air conditioning. Check 211 (pa211.org) to find a cooling center near you.
• Be aware that an N95 mask can provide someprotection; however, surgical and cloth masks will not provide protection due to the size of the pollution particles.
If you are experiencing severe shortness of breath or chest tightness, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you are experiencing minor or controllable symptoms, consider contacting your health care provider.
What to Expect in the Days Ahead
According to AirNow (www.airnow.gov), smoke levels will continue to be intense Friday, with concentrations rising to code PURPLE (Very Unhealthy) category. High moderate ozone is again likely during the afternoon. At this time, air quality is expected to improve on Saturday, but remain unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Ways to Reduce Air Pollution
• Limit the use of fire pits.
• Conserve electricity by setting air conditioning to a higher temperature.
• Combine errands to reduce vehicle trips.
• Limit engine idling.
• Refuel cars and trucks after dusk.
• Limit oil-based cooking, such as grilling or frying food.
Resources
• Monitor the Air Quality in your Area (airnow.gov)
• Air Quality Guide for Particle Pollution(https://www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2023-03/air-quality-guide-for-particle-pollution_0.pdf)
• Guidance for Schools & Camps (https://www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2018-09/air-quality-and-outdoor-activity-guidance-2014.pdf)
