Air Quality Emergencies / Smog
What Is Air Pollution & Smog?
Air pollution occurs when harmful gases, smoke, dust, and microscopic particles contaminate the atmosphere. During severe pollution events, these pollutants mix with fog to create smog, reducing visibility and making the air hazardous to breathe. High levels of pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide can trigger respiratory illnesses, worsen heart conditions, and pose serious health risks, especially for children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with asthma.
Warning Signs of Poor Air Quality
- Thick haze or smog reducing visibility across roads and buildings.
- Air Quality Index (AQI) reported as Poor, Very Poor, or Severe.
- Burning eyes, throat irritation, coughing, headaches, or difficulty breathing.
- Government or weather agencies issuing air pollution or smog advisories.
- Persistent smoke, industrial emissions, wildfire smoke, or dust storms affecting the surrounding area.
Before an Air Pollution Emergency (Prepare)
- Keep certified N95 or KN95 masks available for every family member.
- Monitor the Air Quality Index (AQI) using trusted weather or environmental apps.
- Ensure windows and doors can be closed tightly to prevent polluted air from entering.
- Maintain air purifiers and replace filters regularly if available.
- Keep prescribed inhalers, medicines, and emergency medical supplies easily accessible.
During a Smog Emergency (Stay Safe)
- Stay indoors as much as possible and keep windows and doors closed.
- Wear an N95 or KN95 mask if outdoor travel is unavoidable.
- Reduce outdoor exercise and strenuous physical activities.
- Drink plenty of water and seek medical care if breathing problems become severe.
- Don't burn waste, leaves, or firewood during high pollution periods.
- Don't keep windows open when AQI levels are hazardous.
- Don't ignore persistent coughing, wheezing, or chest discomfort.
- Don't rely on ordinary cloth masks for protection against fine particulate matter.