New York City under a blanket of wildfire smoke.Photo:Gary Hershorn/Getty
Gary Hershorn/Getty
Thedevastating wildfiresin Canada are affecting the East Coast of the United States, blanketing areas in thick smoke and causing air quality to plummet.
Conditions were so dire this week that many schools implemented indoor recess, and Major League Baseball, the National Women’s Soccer League and theWNBA postponed or canceled games.
On June 6, New York City experienced thehighest pollution level in the world. Acting State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald also recommended that “New Yorkers limit strenuous outdoor activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects.”
Wildfires in Canada.Getty Images
Getty Images
And this could only be the beginning, as theWashington Postnotes thatfire season in Canadais expected to last throughout the summer.
But as the smoke spreads, those with lung diseases like asthma and COPD, as well as children and the elderly, are at risk of suffering adverse side effects.
Children are at particular risk from wildfire smoke because their lungs are still developing, warns theEnvironmental Protection Agency.
But there are simple things you can do to keep you — and your loved ones — safe.
Wear an n95 Mask
“The point is to use the best available mask you have access to,” New York’sMcDonald said during a briefing. “If you have a surgical mask, that will give you some protection, but N95 and KN95 are better masks to use in times like this.”
N95 respirator mask.Getty Images
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Monitor the Air Quality Index
Most cell-phone weather apps include this data, but monitoring theUS Air Quality Indexcan help vulnerable groups make a plan of action. When the Air Quality Index hits 101, that means conditions areunhealthy for sensitive groups.
Use an Air Filtration System
Especially for those with heart disease, asthma or other respiratory conditions — as well as homes with elderly and or young members — the CDC recommends using “a freestanding indoor air filter with particle removal.”
Stay Indoors
“The best way to stay safe from#wildfiresmoke is to stay indoors,”the CDC advises. So keep those windows closed — and keep sensitive groups out of harm’s way. And while indoors, avoid burning candles or incense, which can further irritate sensitive lungs.
Keep those windows closed.Getty Images
Staying indoors is especially recommended for sensitive children, as the CDC notes that n95 masks often don’t fit children. “Dust masks, surgical masks, bandanas and breathing through a wet cloth will not protect your child from smoke,”the agency points out.
Don’t Vacuum
Really. TheCDC cautions that “vacuuming stirs up particles already inside your home.” So give the vacuum a break while the air quality is poor.
source: people.com
