Air pollution is a serious problem. It is able to affect the health of every living being. That’s why people have to be aware of their air quality. While occurring of an air pollution advisory, it is necessary to take action to reduce the contact with the air outside.
Pollution Levels
There was a PSI (Pollutant Standards Index) that was replaced by the U.S. EPA (United States Environmental Pollution Agency) with the AQI (Air Quality Index). This index provides useful information for the effected people about different level of air pollution. It is easily understandable how to act in different health categories.
What should we do if there is an air pollution advisory?
In the following the AQI Index Values will be described.
- 0 – 50: This is a good health category. The air quality is all right and there is a small or no risk for air pollution.
- 51 – 100: This is a moderate health category. Sensitive people are advised to avoid extensive outdoor activities.
- 101 – 150: This category contains a value that is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Especially children and adults with asthma or other respiratory diseases should avoid the most outdoor actions.
- 151 – 200: This is already unhealthy. Everyone is advised to avoid extensive outdoor actions.
- 201 – 300: This is a very unhealthy category. Everyone should avoid the most outdoor actions.
- 301 – 500: Extremely unhealthy! Hazardous! Everyone is advised to stay at home and avoid every kind of outdoor action.