Recently, there has been a concerning rise in poor air quality across the United States, as seen on the news due to wildfires and other events. Now, more than ever, it's important for us to understand the environmental and health impacts associated with poor air quality, as well as the steps we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
What exactly is poor air quality? How do we know when the air is considered "poor"? And how can you protect yourself during a bout with poor air in your area? This article will discuss those points and more.
What is Poor Air Quality?
Poor air quality refers to the contamination of the air we breathe, often due to pollutants released from various sources, like wildfires or other chemicals that burn off vehicles or homes. Unfortunately, this problem has been on the rise, primarily driven by factors such as industrial emissions, lack of rain in heavily forested areas, vehicle exhaust, and the burning of fossil fuels.
When the Air Quality Index or AQI is between 0-50, the air quality is considered "good". Anything from 51 -100 is Moderate, 101-150 is considered unhealthy for those with sensitivities, and anything over 151 is considered unhealthy to the general public. A full chart with a breakdown of risks can be found here.
The Health Impact of Poor Air Quality on the Public
Poor air quality poses significant risks to public health. Inhalation of pollutants can harm the respiratory system, increasing the prevalence of respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and other breathing-related issues.
Additionally, exposure to poor air quality has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, stroke, and high blood pressure. Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can weaken your immune system, making you and your loved ones more susceptible to respiratory infections.
Protecting Yourself from Poor Air Quality
While the issue of poor air quality may seem overwhelming and often come on suddenly, there are steps you can take to protect yourself when faced with this hazard. Here are four steps you can take:
- Stay Informed: Stay updated on the air quality index (AQI) in your area. Local weather forecasts and government websites often provide this information, or you can check airnow.gov. Understanding the current air quality conditions can help you plan your activities accordingly.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: When the air quality is poor, reducing your time spent outdoors is essential.
- Create a Clean Indoor Environment: Ensure your indoor spaces are well-ventilated. Use air purifiers or filters to help remove pollutants from the air inside your home or office. Keeping windows and doors closed during poor air quality periods can also help reduce the infiltration of outdoor contaminants.
- Use Protective Measures: When the air quality is poor, wearing masks, especially those designed to filter out fine particles, like N95 masks, can provide a layer of protection.
Poor air quality is a growing concern that affects both our environment and our health. By understanding the environmental and health impacts, we can make informed decisions and take appropriate measures to protect ourselves and our communities.
At Med Lab Supply, we offer a range of high-quality masks, like the N95 masks mentioned above, designed to provide protection against harmful pollutants.
Visit our website to browse our selection and find the right mask for your needs.
