With wildfire smoke expected to create poor air quality in our area over the next few days, Cook County Public Health is encouraging residents and visitors to monitor local air quality conditions and take steps to protect their health when needed.

Even when fires are not burning directly within Cook County, wildfire smoke can travel long distances and lead to poor air quality locally. Wildfire smoke contains very small particles, known as PM2.5, that can travel deep into the lungs and irritate the airways. Symptoms can include coughing, shortness of breath, burning eyes, sore throat, headaches, chest discomfort, and fatigue.

Some people may experience the effects of poor air quality sooner than others. This includes children, older adults, pregnant people, people with asthma or other breathing conditions, and people with heart disease or other chronic health conditions. People who work or exercise outdoors, those who need to keep their windows open to stay cool, and people without stable housing may also be exposed to more wildfire smoke.

One of the best ways to stay informed is to get to know the Air Quality Index, or AQI. The AQI is a color-coded system that provides information about current air quality and what precautions people may want to take.

Cook County Public Health encourages residents and visitors to use AirNow.gov or download the AirNow app to monitor current air quality conditions. Because smoke conditions can change throughout the day depending on wind and weather, checking the AQI can help you decide when you may want to adjust your plans.

When air quality is poor:

• Limit time outdoors and reduce strenuous outdoor activity, particularly if you are experiencing symptoms.
• Keep windows and doors closed when possible, unless doing so makes it difficult to maintain a safe temperature inside your home.
• If you have air conditioning, use the recirculation setting so that it is not pulling in outdoor air.
• Consider creating a cleaner-air space in your home and using a HEPA portable air cleaner, HVAC filtration, or another appropriate air filter if available.
• Avoid adding to indoor air pollution by smoking or vaping, burning candles or incense, or using aerosol products.
• Make sure you have needed medications available, particularly if you or someone in your household has asthma or another health condition that may be affected by smoke.
• If you need to be outdoors when smoke levels are high, a properly fitted N95 or similar respirator can help reduce exposure to fine particles. You can pick up free KN-95s at the PHHS Front Desk in the Cook County Courthouse.
• Pay attention to how you are feeling and take additional precautions if you begin experiencing symptoms.

For people who need to keep windows open to stay cool, balancing heat and wildfire smoke can be difficult. Continue monitoring both heat and air quality conditions. If your home becomes too hot or too smoky, consider spending time in a cooler indoor location with cleaner air, if one is available.

Air quality can change quickly. Residents and visitors are encouraged to continue checking AirNow.gov or the AirNow app for current conditions and recommendations.

If you experience severe symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, call 911 and seek emergency medical care.

More information about preparing for wildfire smoke, improving indoor air quality, and creating a cleaner-air room at home is available on the Cook County Public Health Wildfire Smoke Readiness webpage: https://cookcountymn.gov/government/departments/public_health_and_human_services/public_health/indoor_air_quality.php.