Some people are more sensitive than others. If you feel respiratory symptoms when the air pollution levels rise, do not ignore them. They may indicate a reaction to ozone, particle pollution, or other pollutants. People with heart or lung conditions are unusually sensitive, but even healthy athletes may have a reaction at AQI levels well below 100.

Be Aware of Current Air Quality Levels and the Forecast for the Next Day

Check cleanaircampaign.org daily or sign up to receive Smog Alerts by email. If the air is forecast to be unhealhy, you'll receive an emailed Alert around 2 p.m. on the day before.

Find current air quality levels in your area by looking at the "raw data" for ozone and particle pollution.

Minimize Your Exposure

While outdoor exercise is good for health, you should consider limiting your outdoor exercise at times when air quality is poor, such as late afternoons and early evenings in the summer on high-ozone days. Alternatives include indoor exercise, or exercise in the morning or late evening hours. Get The Clean Air Campaign's complete Health Advisory guidelines on physical activity during smog season.

Change Your Activities

When particle pollution concentrations are expected to be high, take it easy. Particle pollution levels can be high inside as well as out, so cut back or reschedule strenuous activities. Changing your plans can help reduce the amount of pollutants that get in your lungs.

If You Have Asthma or a Cardiac Condition, Treat It

Follow your doctor's instructions faithfully. This will likely include taking medications and eliminating exposures at home or work that may tend to trigger your condition.

Additional Resources:

"Facts About Asthma" from the American Lung Association
"Clinical Guidelines For Diagnosing And Treating Asthma" from the National Institutes of Health

Help Prevent Poor Air Quality

You can help protect your health, and your community's health, by taking steps such as carpooling, teleworking and using transit. A clean air lifestyle can have a positive impact on your health.