Air Quality Index resources during wildfires

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is something you normally don’t think about but due to the recent uptick in the wildfires on the west coast, and the inevitable changes in global warming, it is unfortunately now a norm for most of us, especially those living on the west coast.

AQILevel
0 - 50Good
51 -100Moderate
101-150Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
151-200Unhealthy
201-300Very Unhealthy
300+Hazardous

I’ve gathered a list of websites, and apps, that I have found as good resources. Please feel free to share others below in the comments.

Air Quality Index - AQI

Wildfires

The overall AQI score includes a lot different pollutants. Each of these items can and do have their own individual score. So when you look at an average AQI score, it is helpful to know what you are reading exactly.

  1. PM 2.5 - tiny particulate matter (PM) smaller than 2.5 micrometers
  2. PM 10 - small particulate matter (PM) that is <= 10 micrometers
  3. Carbon monoxide
  4. Nitrogen dioxide
  5. Nitric oxide
  6. Sulphur dioxide
  7. Lead
  8. Ozone

Things you can do to stay safe during wildfires

  • Don’t go outside
  • If you do wear a mask and goggles
  • Close and seal all your windows and doors
  • Close and seal all fresh air vents
  • Run a fan indoors
  • Run an air purifier indoors if you can
  • Avoid physical activity
  • Pack essential items in case of a need to evacuate

Stay safe

😷