At 9:11 a.m. on Thursday, the National Weather Service reported an air quality alert in effect until Friday at 9 a.m. for Summit, Grand and Jackson counties.

The NWS adds to prepare for, “Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke.”

“Widespread moderate to heavy smoke has been observed across much of the advisory area Thursday morning. Additional heavy smoke is possible Thursday afternoon and evening, and into Friday morning, for areas downwind of the wildfires in Rio Blanco County. Smoke impacts may shift northward on Thursday, impacting areas along and north of Interstate 70 within the advisory area,” comments the NWS.

Air quality alerts: Recommendations from the NWS

When an air quality alert pops up on the radar, deciphering its implications is crucial. These alerts, issued by the NWS, come with straightforward yet essential guidance to ensure your safety:

Retreat indoors whenever feasible:

If possible, remain indoors, especially if you have respiratory issues, other health concerns, or fall within the senior or child demographics.

Minimize outdoor ventures:

When venturing outside is unavoidable, restrict your time outdoors solely to essential activities. Reducing exposure is paramount.

Scale back pollution-inducing practices:

Be conscious of activities that contribute to pollution, such as driving cars, using gas-powered lawnmowers, or relying on motorized vehicles. Curtail their use during air quality alerts.

A no to open burning:

Refrain from kindling fires with debris or any other materials during an air quality alert. Such practices only contribute to heightened air pollution.

Stay well-informed:

Keep yourself well-informed by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news outlet. Staying in the loop empowers you to make informed decisions regarding outdoor engagements during air quality alerts.

Prioritize respiratory health:

If you grapple with respiratory issues or underlying health problems, exercise added caution. These conditions can render you more susceptible to the adverse effects of compromised air quality.

By adhering to the recommendations from the NWS, you can enhance your safety during air quality alerts and reduce your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay vigilant, stay protected, and prioritize your health above all else.

Source: The National Weather Service