The National Weather Service reported an air quality alert at 8:11 a.m. on Friday in effect until Saturday at 9 a.m. for Garfield County.

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

“The Hilltop wildfire is producing heavy smoke Friday morning for areas along Interstate 70 from Rulison westward into Parachute. Smoke should decrease across the advisory area late Friday morning as atmospheric mixing increases. However, active fire behavior Friday afternoon could increase smoke again and create heavy smoke impacts for the advisory area late Friday night and into Saturday morning,” states the NWS.

Air quality alerts: Recommendations from the NWS

When an air quality alert is in effect, following the NWS guidance is pivotal. Here are some simple tips from the NWS for safeguarding your well-being:

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 becomes unavoidable, limit your outdoor exposure strictly to essential tasks. Reducing your time outdoors is the name of the game.

Mitigate pollution sources:

Be mindful of activities that increase pollution, like driving cars, operating gas-powered lawnmowers, or using motorized vehicles. Limit their usage during air quality alerts.

A ban on open burning:

Refrain from igniting fires with debris or any other materials during air quality alerts. Such practices only contribute to the problem of poor air quality.

Stay informed:

Stay updated by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news outlet. Staying informed helps you make wise choices regarding outdoor activities 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