At 5:10 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service reported an updated air quality alert in effect until Tuesday at 9 a.m. for Montezuma, Dolores and La Plata counties.

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

“The Stoner Mesa fire in eastern Dolores County will create areas of moderate to heavy smoke on Monday and Tuesday. The greatest impacts are expected during overnight and early morning hours, especially in sheltered valleys and low-lying terrain,” explains 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:

Prioritize indoor stay:

Whenever possible, seek refuge indoors, especially if you grapple with respiratory concerns, health issues, or belong to the senior or child demographic

Curb outdoor exposure:

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

Cut back on pollution-inducing activities:

Be mindful of activities that exacerbate pollution, such as driving cars, operating gas-powered lawnmowers, or using other motorized vehicles. Limit 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 informed:

Stay updated of developments by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news source. Being well-informed empowers you to make informed decisions regarding outdoor pursuits during air quality alerts.

Respiratory health matters:

If you have respiratory issues or health problems, exercise extra caution. These conditions can make you more vulnerable to the adverse effects of poor air quality.

Following the recommendations from the NWS helps bolster your safety during air quality alerts, minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay vigilant, stay protected, and make your health the top priority.

Source: The National Weather Service