Bad air quality isn’t only a problem in smoggy big cities; it regularly impacts communities across the United States. Because ozone quality and particulate matter can affect the health of residents in Big Sky Country, it’s important to invest in air duct cleaning for indoor air, too. Keep up to date with why air quality alerts are issued and what people can do to stay healthy if they are.

Alert Definition 

Mandated by the Clean Air Act, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issue air quality guidance each day. When scientists find abnormal ground-level ozone and other pollution levels, they provide this information to meteorologists and community leaders. The alerts are also available through resources like AirNow maps and EnviroFlash. Individuals and businesses can sign up for instant notifications or monitor them on the Internet. 

Index Numbers and Color Codes 

The EPA’s Air Quality Index measures air quality on a scale from 0-500. If the number is below 50, pollution poses little risk. At 51-100, unusually sensitive people may find it difficult to breathe. From 101-150, members of sensitive groups could experience health effects. From 151-200, everyone who travels outside is at risk for trouble breathing. Any number from 201-300 is considered a public health alert, while ratings above 301 are an emergency. 

You may also receive local warnings through color coding. If your notice is orange, susceptible people should try to stay inside. Red means the environment is becoming dangerous for everyone, while purple or maroon constitutes a public health problem. Yellow and green indicate that air quality issues are moderate or good, respectively.

How to React 

If you or a loved one have a respiratory disease or illness, sign up for air quality alerts in your area. If numbers rise above 51 or escalate to orange, be prepared to take precautions. Strategies include moving indoors and preparing medications like inhalers or nebulizers. 

Senior caregivers and parents should also be aware of the daily risk. Pay attention to weather forecasts, register for email notifications, or check the news if you suspect there is an ozone, smoke, or dust issue. If you are a healthy adult, stay aware. Move inside if you hear about a red air quality alert or index above 151. 

Avoid walking and exercising in high traffic areas and purchase a HEPA filter for your business or residence. Use air conditioning at home and in the car. Routine air duct cleaning and filter replacement by a skilled air duct technician will also help you keep indoor air quality healthy. 

If you have ill or susceptible people in your home or workplace, keeping your indoor air clean and healthy is more important than ever. A conversation with an air duct cleaning expert will help you determine how often to receive the service and what else you can do to stay safe. To receive a thorough air duct cleaning assessment, call the experts at Air Pro Duct Cleaning of Flathead County, MT, at (406) 752-0652, or schedule residential and commercial duct cleaning services online.