Air Quality Index and Outdoor Activities

If you’re a native of Los Angeles, you’re accustomed to checking the Air Quality Index on a daily basis and making decisions about your day. If you’re new to town and come from a more rural area, you might not be used to checking this little box on your weather app and seeing fluctuations in the AQI. But there are some very good reasons why you should scroll down below the 10-day forecast to check this little number and why you should care about it.

The activities you should do or avoid depending on the Air Quality Index (AQI) vary to protect your health and well-being. The AQI is a measure of how polluted the air is, and it's typically divided into different categories that range from "Good" to "Hazardous." Here are some general guidelines on what activities to consider based on the AQI level:

1. Good (0-50):

  • Air quality is excellent. No special precautions are needed.

  • Engage in outdoor activities and exercise as usual.

2. Moderate (51-100):

  • Air quality is acceptable but may be a concern for people with respiratory conditions.

  • Most people can engage in outdoor activities, but individuals with asthma, lung problems, or sensitivity to air pollution should take it easy.

3. Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150):

  • Sensitive groups include children, the elderly, individuals with respiratory or heart conditions, and those with compromised immune systems.

  • Sensitive individuals should limit prolonged outdoor exertion, and everyone else should reduce strenuous outdoor activities.

4. Unhealthy (151-200):

  • Everyone may begin to experience health effects, and members of sensitive groups are at greater risk.

  • Reduce prolonged outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise.

  • Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.

  • Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters indoors.

5. Very Unhealthy (201-300):

  • Everyone is likely to be affected, and even healthy people may experience health effects.

  • Avoid outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise.

  • Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.

  • Use air purifiers with HEPA filters and consider wearing N95 masks if you need to go outside.

6. Hazardous (301+):

  • Health alert: Everyone may experience more serious health effects.

  • Avoid all outdoor activities.

  • Stay indoors with windows and doors closed.

  • Use air purifiers with HEPA filters, and if you must go outside, use N95 masks.

It's essential to monitor the AQI regularly, especially if you live in an area prone to air pollution or wildfires. You can check the AQI through local news, weather apps, or websites. When the AQI is in the unhealthy range or higher, it's crucial to prioritize your health and limit exposure to polluted air. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on how to stay safe during poor air quality conditions.

.Cecilie Korst\\