In recent years, we’ve become more familiar with the Air Quality Index (AQI), those color-coded alerts that flash across weather apps or news broadcasts. But in the past two summers, the issue has hit even closer to home. Wildfire smoke from Canada has drifted into Michigan skies, bringing hazy conditions and unhealthy air to Lenawee County and surrounding areas.
These high AQI days aren’t just a nuisance; they can seriously impact your health, especially for children, older adults, people with asthma or other lung conditions, and anyone spending extended time outdoors.
What Is AQI?
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized measure of air pollution. It ranges from 0 to 500 and is color-coded to indicate health risks:
- 0–50 (Green): Good
- 51–100 (Yellow): Moderate
- 101–150 (Orange): Unhealthy for sensitive groups
- 151–200 (Red): Unhealthy
- 201–300 (Purple): Very unhealthy
- 301–500 (Maroon): Hazardous
Smoke from wildfires, especially from large-scale events like those we’ve seen in Canada, can cause particle pollution (also known as PM2.5), which poses the most serious health risks. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into your lungs and even enter your bloodstream.
How to Stay Safe on Poor AQI Days
1. Know Before You Go
Check the AQI before planning any outdoor activity. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and airnow.gov provide daily forecasts and alerts. Many weather apps also include AQI readings. We also have a page on our website that will show our local AQI in real-time.
2. Reschedule Outdoor Activities
On days when AQI is in the orange or red zone, try to limit outdoor exertion, especially during the afternoon when air quality is typically worst.
3. Protect Sensitive Groups
Children, older adults, pregnant people, and individuals with respiratory or heart conditions are especially vulnerable. Make sure they stay indoors with clean air and reduce physical activity when air quality is poor.
4. Improve Indoor Air Quality
Keep windows and doors closed. Use air conditioning if possible and consider using an air purifier. Avoid activities that worsen indoor air quality, like burning candles or using gas stoves without ventilation.
5. Wear a Mask Outdoors
If you must be outside during smoky or poor AQI conditions, an N95 mask can help filter out harmful particles better than cloth or surgical masks.
Let’s Protect Our Lungs and Each Other
Air quality concerns are no longer just a distant issue. They are here in Michigan, affecting us now. The Lenawee County Health Department encourages all residents to stay informed, stay safe, and look out for vulnerable friends and neighbors.
You can find more tips and tools to help you prepare for poor air quality days at airnow.gov and follow us on social media for local updates and alerts.