If you live in the eastern United States, you may have noticed a new number on your phone’s weather app: the Air Quality Index (AQI). Currently, smoke from wildfires in Canada has pushed New York’s AQI over 300, which is considered hazardous. This means that short-term exposure could lead to trouble breathing, nausea, or dizziness, while long-term exposure could cause serious damage to your heart and lungs.
You can find the current level of air pollution where you live at AirNow.gov. When the AQI gets back down to 150 or below, it will be safe for most people to go outside again.
Unfortunately, Canada is on track for an unusually severe wildfire season this year, so dealing with this level of air pollution may become more common. A properly fitted N95 mask will filter out some smoke particles, but it won’t protect you from hazardous gases in the smoke, like carbon monoxide. It’s best to stay inside if you can, with the windows closed and any air conditioning or air filters running.