At 4:10 p.m. on Sunday, the National Weather Service reported an updated air quality alert in effect until 10 p.m. for La Plata and Archuleta counties.
The NWS informs, “Air Quality Health Advisory for Ozone.”
“Ozone concentrations in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category are likely within the advisory area Sunday afternoon and evening,” explains 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:
Seek shelter indoors when possible:
If you can, take refuge indoors, especially if you have respiratory concerns, underlying health conditions, or belong to the senior or child demographics.
Trim outdoor activities:
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 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 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.
Respiratory health matters:
If you have respiratory problems or underlying health conditions, exercise extra caution. These conditions can increase your vulnerability to adverse effects from poor 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