Air Pollution: When To Evacuate And Protect Your Health

Whether or not to evacuate due to poor air quality is a complex question that depends on a variety of factors, including the nature of the pollution, the severity of the pollution, and the resources available to those affected. In the case of chemical air pollution incidents, the prevailing expert view is that sheltering in place is generally preferable to evacuation, as evacuations can carry their own risks and resource implications. However, in the event of a wildfire, local officials may advise evacuation or recommend staying indoors, depending on the specific circumstances. Ultimately, the decision to evacuate or shelter in place should be informed by local emergency services and based on up-to-date information from official sources.

The risks of evacuating vs staying put

The decision to evacuate an area or stay put during an air pollution incident depends on the specific circumstances and the nature of the incident. Air pollution can be caused by various factors, such as wildfires, industrial accidents, or chemical releases, and each situation may require a different response. Here are some considerations for the risks of evacuating versus staying put:

Evacuating:

• Pros: Evacuating can remove individuals from the immediate danger zone and potentially reduce their exposure to harmful pollutants. It is especially crucial when there is a serious threat to public safety, such as an active fire or a chemical spill. Evacuation can also help prevent the spread of the pollution and allow for better coordination of emergency response efforts.
• Cons: Evacuating a large number of people can be challenging and may carry its own risks. During an evacuation, individuals may be exposed to higher concentrations of pollutants for a short period, which can have adverse health effects. The stress and physical demands of evacuating, especially for vulnerable individuals, can also cause health issues. Additionally, there may be delays in getting appropriate public health advice, and initial decisions may be made under stressful conditions without a comprehensive assessment of the situation.

Staying Put:

• Pros: Sheltering in place can provide a barrier between individuals and the source of pollution, potentially reducing exposure. In some cases, staying put may be a safer option, especially if the pollution is widespread or if the evacuation route takes people through areas with higher pollution levels. It also avoids the potential risks and health impacts associated with the evacuation process itself.
• Cons: Staying put may not always be feasible or effective, especially if the air pollution incident is severe and prolonged. Indoor spaces may not provide complete protection from air pollution, as smoke or pollutants can still enter buildings and affect indoor air quality. Additionally, staying put may limit access to essential resources, such as food, water, and medical care, particularly if the incident persists for an extended period.

It is essential to follow the instructions provided by local authorities and emergency response teams, as they have the most up-to-date information about the situation and can advise on the best course of action for your specific location.

How to prepare for an evacuation

In the event of an evacuation due to bad air pollution, it is important to be prepared. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

Prepare a "go bag"

This should include essential items such as a sturdy pair of shoes, a flashlight, food, water, medications, pet supplies, extra cell phone chargers, and important documents. Keep this bag easily accessible and ready to go at a moment's notice.

Create an evacuation plan

Map out primary and backup routes to your evacuation destination, as roads may be blocked or impassable. Have a physical map on hand in case GPS is unavailable. Designate a specific meeting place for your family, and ensure everyone has the pertinent addresses and phone numbers.

Protect yourself from air pollution

During an evacuation due to air pollution, it is crucial to protect yourself from the harmful effects of smoke or other pollutants. Follow local instructions on whether to shelter in place or evacuate. If advised to evacuate, move quickly as smoke can make it difficult to see and breathe. If advised to shelter in place, consider purchasing or making a DIY air cleaner to improve your indoor air quality.

Practice your plan

Conduct a real-time test of your evacuation plan to identify any areas for improvement. Give yourself a limited amount of time to gather your belongings and get to safety, simulating the conditions of an actual emergency.

Stay informed

Pay close attention to local emergency alerts, news, and official websites for up-to-date information on air pollution levels and evacuation instructions. Check local law enforcement agencies and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for notifications and guidance.

How to improve indoor air quality

In the event of a chemical air pollution incident, the prevailing expert view for public health protection is to shelter rather than evacuate. Sheltering is advised because protection is offered by barriers between the exposure and the population, and evacuation may expose you to higher levels of smoke for a shorter duration.

To improve indoor air quality, you can take the following steps:

• Increase ventilation: Open your doors and windows for at least 10 minutes every day to let in the fresh air. This is a no-cost solution that helps to dilute indoor pollutants, making it healthier to breathe. However, if you live near a busy freeway, factory, or other sources of outdoor air pollution, opening your windows and doors may not be advisable.
• Use air cleaners: Consider purchasing a portable air cleaner or high-efficiency HVAC system filter to help improve your indoor air quality. If you opt for a portable air cleaner, choose one that is appropriately sized for the room in which you will use it. Ensure that the air cleaner does not produce ozone. If you cannot afford a commercial air cleaner, you can make a DIY air cleaner by attaching furnace filters to a box fan. However, keep in mind that DIY air cleaners may not be as effective as commercial ones and their performance depends on their design and assembly.
• Reduce energy use: Generating electricity and other sources of energy create air pollution. By reducing energy use, you can help improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and save money.
• Avoid indoor pollutants: Burning firewood and trash can contribute to particle pollution. Use hand-powered or electric lawn care equipment instead of gasoline-powered tools, as old two-stroke engines add pollution to the air. Avoid burning fuel indoors, as this can release harmful emissions such as carbon monoxide and benzene.
• Address allergens: Common indoor allergens include pet dander, mouse and cockroach droppings, mould and mildew, and dust. Use mats at entrances to capture dust and allergens, and take off your shoes at the door to prevent tracking in pollutants. Regular cleaning, such as mopping, vacuuming, and dusting, can also help reduce allergens.
• Monitor air quality: Invest in an indoor air quality monitor to keep an eye on CO2 levels, especially in rooms that are continuously occupied without circulation.

How to identify poor air quality

In the event of a chemical incident, the prevailing expert view is that sheltering is safer than evacuating. Evacuation carries its own risks and can expose people to higher levels of smoke and other pollutants. However, there are times when evacuating is the best course of action, and it is important to pay close attention to local emergency alerts to know when to evacuate.

• Health symptoms : If you experience frequent headaches, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, or an increase in allergies, irritations, or respiratory problems, this could be a sign of poor air quality. These symptoms may improve when you leave the building or room, only to return when you come back.
• Indoor air quality : If your home smells musty and the air feels old or stiff, you may not have enough ventilation. Poor ventilation can lead to high concentrations of pollutants, condensation, and microbial growth.
• Humidity : High humidity levels can indicate poor air quality as they create a warm and moist environment that allows pollutants to thrive and grow. Relative humidity levels should be kept between 30-50%.
• Air Quality Index (AQI) : The U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used to communicate about outdoor air quality and health. Each category has a specific colour, making it easy to determine whether air quality is reaching unhealthy levels. An AQI value of 50 or below represents good air quality, while an AQI value over 300 represents hazardous air quality.
• Sources of pollution : Identify potential sources of indoor air pollution, such as smoking or vaping indoors, fuel-burning appliances that are not properly vented, outside sources of odours or particles coming indoors, or the use of chemicals, paints, or solvents indoors.

The health risks of bad air pollution

Air pollution is the presence of contaminants in the atmosphere, such as dust, fumes, gases, mist, odours, smoke, or vapours, in quantities that can be harmful to human health. The main pathway of exposure is through the respiratory tract, but some pollutants are small enough to enter the bloodstream through the lungs and circulate throughout the body, impacting almost every organ.

The health risks of air pollution are serious and affect people of all ages. Short-term exposure to high levels of particle pollution can lead to reduced lung function, respiratory infections, and aggravated asthma. Long-term exposure increases the risk of developing lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other noncommunicable diseases. Particle pollution is also associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight and small gestational age. Children are especially vulnerable to the health impacts of air pollution, with higher rates of asthma and bronchitis, and research suggesting links to cognitive and emotional problems later in life.

The sources of particle pollution are varied and include factories, power plants, and vehicles. Wildfires can also contribute to poor air quality, with smoke making the outdoor air unhealthy to breathe and sometimes reaching indoor spaces as well. In the case of wildfires, local officials may advise staying indoors, and it is recommended to have emergency supplies, including N95 respirator masks, and a portable air cleaner or DIY air filter to improve indoor air quality.

To protect yourself from the health risks of bad air pollution, it is important to limit exposure to high pollution levels. This can include avoiding outdoor exercise when pollution levels are high, reducing energy use at home, and supporting efforts to clean up sources of pollution. It is also crucial to be aware of evacuation routes and local emergency alerts in case of incidents that cause severe air pollution, such as chemical incidents or wildfires.

Frequently asked questions