As fires rage across Los Angeles County, prompting thousands of people to evacuate, billowing smoke is affecting the LA area and beyond. Wildfire smoke can be harmful For health, especially children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with respiratory or cardiovascular problems.
Air quality can be dangerous Affect people's health in many waysFrom headaches and eye irritation to trouble breathing and even heart failure. Here's how to tell if you're in the risk zone.
What is Air Quality Index or AQI?
Air Quality Index, often called AQIA federal measure of the amount of air pollution, which is reported on a six-color spectrum ranging from green (good) to hazardous (maroon). Five pollutants are evaluated as part of the index: ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. The index shows what health effects are associated with each category of air quality.
AirNow.gov
AQI map
Ways to protect your health when air quality is bad
Experts say wildfire smoke particles can cause mild symptoms like headache, sinus irritation, runny nose and watery eyes. Poor air quality also increases the risk of more serious health problems, including stroke, heart attack and heart failure.
Experts say the best protection, if you can, is to wear goggles and a half-face respirator with a combined particulate and gas cartridge. If you can't, wear a high-quality mask, such as an N95 mask — or at least a surgical mask or some type of face covering. And if you're able to stay indoors, do so, especially if you can run an air purifier or put filters on your HVAC system.