Breathing At 500 Aqi – Deadly Or Not?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a system used to warn the public when air pollution is dangerous. The AQI is a nationally uniform color-coded index for reporting and forecasting daily air quality. The AQI includes six color-coded categories, each corresponding to a range of index values. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health concern. For example, an AQI value of 50 or below represents good air quality, while an AQI value over 300 represents hazardous air quality. A rating anywhere between 301 and 500 is considered “hazardous,” and air quality at that level will trigger health warnings. At that level and beyond, everyone should stay indoors and reduce activity levels.

The AQI is divided into six categories. Each category corresponds to a different level of health concern. Each category also has a specific color. The color makes it easy for people to quickly determine whether air quality is reaching unhealthy levels in their communities.

What is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a system used to inform the public about outdoor air quality and health on a daily basis. It is a tool developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States to communicate the density of five major air pollutants regulated by the Clean Air Act: ground-level ozone, particle pollution (or particulate matter), carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants pose varying levels of threat to human health, with ground-level ozone and airborne particles considered the most harmful in the US.

The AQI is measured on a scale from 0 to 500, with 0 representing perfect air quality and 500 indicating extremely hazardous air pollution levels that pose an immediate danger to the public. The index is divided into six colour-coded categories, each representing a different level of health concern. The categories range from good air quality (an AQI value of 50 or below) to hazardous air quality (an AQI value over 300).

When the AQI value is 100 or below, the air quality is generally considered satisfactory for most individuals. However, as the AQI value increases beyond 100, the air quality deteriorates and becomes unhealthy first for sensitive groups, and then for the general public as the values climb higher. At values above 300, the air quality is deemed hazardous, and health warnings are typically issued. During such hazardous conditions, it is recommended that everyone stays indoors and reduces their physical activity levels.

The AQI is an essential tool for individuals to understand the health implications of air pollution in their local areas. By staying informed about the AQI, people can take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from the harmful effects of air pollution, especially those who are more vulnerable, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

How does the AQI work?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to communicate to the public about outdoor air quality and health. The AQI measures the density of five pollutants in the air: ground-level ozone (smog), particulates (from smoke, power plants, factories, vehicle exhaust, etc.), carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. It runs on a scale from 0 to 500, with 0 representing perfect air quality and 500 representing air pollution levels that pose an immediate danger to the public.

The AQI is divided into six color-coded categories, each corresponding to a range of index values and indicating a different level of health concern. The six categories are:

• Good: Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
• Moderate: Air quality is acceptable, but there may be a risk for some people, especially those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
• Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects, while the general public is less likely to be affected.
• Unhealthy: Some members of the general public may experience health effects, and members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.
• Hazardous: The risk of health effects is increased for everyone.
• Beyond the AQI: Health warning of emergency conditions; everyone is likely to be affected.

Each category has a specific colour, making it easy for people to quickly determine whether air quality is reaching unhealthy levels in their communities. An AQI value of 100 generally corresponds to the level of the short-term national ambient air quality standard for protection of public health. Values at or below 100 are considered satisfactory for almost everyone, while values above 100 indicate unhealthy air quality. The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of pollution and the health concern.

The EPA issues year-round AQI forecasts for most of the nation, with maps showing real-time information on how pollution levels change and move throughout the day. These maps are available at AirNow.gov.

What are the levels of health concern?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a colour-coded system used to warn the public about dangerous levels of air pollution. The AQI is divided into six categories, each corresponding to a different level of health concern. These categories are:

• Good (0-50 AQI): Air quality is excellent and poses little to no risk.
• Moderate (51-100 AQI): Air quality is acceptable, but there may be some health concerns for unusually sensitive individuals.
• Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150 AQI): People with medical conditions or inherent susceptibility may experience health effects when engaged in outdoor activities. The sensitive group includes children, active adults, and people with respiratory diseases.
• Unhealthy (151-200 AQI): Anyone active outdoors may experience respiratory effects, and members of sensitive groups are likely to experience more severe effects.
• Very Unhealthy (201-300 AQI): There will be widespread effects among the general population and more serious effects on members of sensitive groups.
• Hazardous (301-500 AQI): This level triggers health warnings of emergency conditions, and there will be widespread media coverage. Everyone should stay indoors and reduce activity levels.

What can I do when the AQI is unhealthy?

An AQI of 500 is extremely dangerous and indicates hazardous conditions. At this level, the air quality poses an immediate danger to the public, and everyone should stay indoors and reduce activity levels.

• Limit your time outdoors: Avoid spending prolonged periods outside, especially if you are part of a sensitive group. Sensitive groups include children, active adults, the elderly, people with respiratory diseases such as asthma, people with heart or lung diseases, people with diabetes, and pregnant women.
• Reduce physical activity: If you need to go outside, avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise. The deep, rapid breathing associated with exercise can worsen the health effects of pollution.
• Stay away from high-traffic areas: Pollution levels are typically higher in areas with heavy traffic. Plan your routes to avoid busy roads, especially if you are walking, running, or biking.
• Use indoor air purification: If you are indoors, ensure that windows and doors are closed to prevent outdoor air from entering. Consider using portable air cleaners or air purifiers to improve the indoor air quality.
• Wear a respirator: If you must be outdoors, consider wearing a respirator or a face mask designed to protect against air pollution, such as an N95 filtering facepiece respirator.
• Check air quality reports: Stay informed about the air quality in your area by checking local media, newspapers, television, or radio that provide AQI levels. The EPA's AirNow website and app provide real-time air quality information and forecasts.
• Adjust your plans: If the air quality is forecast to be unhealthy, make changes to your daily plans. Avoid outdoor activities and gatherings, and consider finding indoor alternatives for your usual outdoor routines.
• Speak to your healthcare provider: If you have any concerns or experience health issues related to air quality, consult your doctor or healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and guidance on reducing your exposure and protecting your health.
• Support stronger pollution control measures: Contact your local officials to express your concerns about the impact of air pollution on your health. Advocate for stronger pollution control measures and policies to improve air quality in your community.

How can I reduce my exposure to particle pollution near roadways?

An AQI (Air Quality Index) of 500 is extremely rare in the United States, but it does happen occasionally, mostly in Western states due to wildfires. When the AQI reaches 500, the air quality is deemed hazardous and can cause serious health issues, especially for those over 65 or under 5. At this level, the EPA recommends that everyone stays indoors and reduces their activity levels.

Now, here are some detailed and direct instructions on how to reduce your exposure to particle pollution near roadways:

Reduce Exposure to Particle Pollutants in Vehicles

• If you live near a roadway, the highest exposure to particles outdoors usually occurs when driving on the road. So, if possible, avoid spending too much time on the road, especially during heavy traffic.
• When buying a new vehicle, consider purchasing an electric, hybrid (gasoline-electric), or other low-emitting options.
• Avoid using uncertified electronic air cleaners in your vehicle, as some produce ozone, which may be harmful to your health.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to regularly change the cabin air filter. If available, install a HEPA filter.
• When stuck in heavy traffic, close the windows and use the air recirculation setting (close vents). However, air out the vehicle periodically to avoid drowsiness from the build-up of exhaled carbon dioxide.
• Avoid long warm-ups, especially in enclosed spaces, and unnecessary idling, especially near schools and hospitals.
• Keep your vehicle properly tuned and maintained.

Reduce Particle Pollution in Indoor Air

• Use exhaust fans that vent outdoors when cooking. If an exhaust fan is not available or does not vent outside, open windows to increase ventilation.
• Use a high-efficiency portable air cleaner to remove particles from the indoor air.
• Do not allow smoking inside your home.
• Use an electric or gas heater instead of a wood stove or fireplace. If you must burn wood, use "seasoned" (dry) wood, and ensure proper drafting in your fireplace or wood stove.
• Have gas heaters and stoves checked annually by a professional to ensure they are functioning correctly and are vented outdoors.
• Never use hibachis, charcoal grills, unvented space heaters, or power generators indoors.
• Limit the burning of candles and incense, and only use them with good outdoor air ventilation.
• Avoid using air fresheners, cleaning products, and fragrances with pine or citrus scents, as they can react with ozone to form particles and formaldehyde.
• Ensure adequate ventilation during activities that generate moisture indoors, such as showering, cooking, and dishwashing. Moisture encourages the growth of moulds and dust mites, which can trigger asthma and allergies in sensitive individuals.

Reduce the Entry of Outdoor Particles into your Home

• Use doormats and remove your shoes at the doorway to avoid tracking in outdoor particles.
• Close windows and doors when the outdoor particle level is high. Stay informed about the current and forecasted air quality levels for your city using resources like AirNow.
• Maintain a clean house to prevent the resuspension of particles from carpets and floors, such as soil, pollen, cockroach allergens, and animal dander. Use a high-efficiency vacuum cleaner or a central (whole-house) vacuum, and damp mop hard floors frequently.
• Use a medium- or high-efficiency filter in your HVAC system if it is compatible. If your home lacks a central system, opt for high-efficiency portable air cleaners that don't emit ozone, and remember to change the filters as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Reduce Exposure to Particle Pollutants Outdoors

• When the outdoor pollution levels are high, avoid spending prolonged periods outside, especially near busy roads or freeways.
• If you must engage in outdoor activities, wear a N95 particle mask in smoky or dusty conditions.
• Opt for electric lawn and garden equipment instead of gas-powered alternatives.

Frequently asked questions