HYANNIS – Recent air quality alerts throughout the state have caused confusion and concern among residents, and experts say reducing carbon emissions could be the key to avoiding future scares.
The air quality dips seen earlier this week, though not severe, could have caused poor health conditions in vulnerable groups such as elderly populations, young children, and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma.
Individuals with outdoor jobs or those that spend extended periods of time outside were also in danger due to increased levels of exposure.
Winds carrying contamination such as smoke from wildfires are not the only air pollution concern.
All kinds of carbon output can have harmful affects on breathing conditions.
Air quality experts with the EPA advise to remain vigilant of air conditions as well as your own carbon output.
“It’s primarily just being aware of your surroundings,” noted John Rogan, Chief of Air Quality Planning for Region 1 of the EPA, “and much like leaving the house you would be looking to see what the weather forecast was going to be in terms of if you should be grabbing the umbrella, air quality is just as important of a factor.”
If air conditions are dangerous, staying inside to avoid overexposure is recommended, and opting for more ecofriendly transportation such as carpooling can help to cut back on future concerns.
About Maura MacDonald
