Air pollution can have a serious impact on your health. Fine particles and invisible gases enter our bodies through the respiratory system and can lead to adverse health effects. Very small particles (PM₂.₅ and smaller) can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream and affect the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, brain, and other organs. Short-term effects of air pollution can include eye, nose and throat irritation, asthma attacks, wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath, fatigue, and headaches, while longer-term effects may include respiratory disease, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and chronic bronchitis, heart disease, stroke, cancer, cognitive, and prenatal effects.
The occurrence of these health effects depends on pre-existing health conditions, the types of pollution you’re exposed to and how long you’re exposed for, but the following categories of people are at increased risk from air pollution:
- People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD
- People with heart disease
- Adults over age 65
- Children
- People who are pregnant
- People who live, work, or play near sources of air pollution
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a measurement system that communicates the level of air pollution. The higher the Air Quality Index value is, the more polluted the air is. Most of the time, the AQI in the District is green or yellow. Check today’s AQI.
Some Steps to Protect Your Health
- Sign up for EnviroFlash to have local Air Quality Alerts texted or emailed to you. The data that goes into EnviroFlash comes from the District own air quality monitors
- Download Clean Air Partner’s Air Quality App for daily air quality forecasts and current air quality information
- Spend less time outside when the AQI is high
- Wear a N95 or KN95 mask when outside if the high AQI is caused by particle pollution
For additional information:
- Why You Should Give a Darn About Air Quality
- If you are a teacher, check out the Clean Air Partners Curriculum
- AirNow Air Quality Flag Program for teachers, students, and schools [Versión en Español]
- Learn more about home electrification and energy efficiency
- Other air quality resources from Clean Air Partners
Ways to Help Keep the District’s Air Clean
Transportation
The transportation sector is the largest source of emissions that contribute to air pollution in the District.
- Drive less – Instead of driving: share a ride, walk, bike, use public transit, or telework when possible.
- Develop good driving habits – Combine errands and trips to reduce avoid vehicle starts; don’t speed, since wind resistance from increased speed burns more fuel; avoid extended idling.
- Wait to refuel your car – During summer months, do so after 7 pm; avoid spilling gas and “topping off” the tank; replace the gas tank cap tightly.
- Maintain your vehicle – Replace oil and air filters regularly; keep tires properly inflated and aligned; avoid engines that smoke; get your vehicle inspected on schedule.
- Reduce Vehicle Idling
- Explore local Commuter Connections
- Check out these Fuel Saving Tips for Drivers
- Get involved in the region’s transportation planning process
- If you are purchasing a vehicle, check out EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide or consider a SmartWay Certified Vehicle
- If you own a diesel fleet, consider engine replacements or retrofits to reduce diesel emissions
- If you are involved with the movement of goods or the freight transportation industry, become a SmartWay® Transport Partner or Affiliate
Home and Garden
In addition to being a significant source of air pollution, the burning of fossil fuels is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions.
- Plan yard work and chores – On Code Orange days, avoid gas- or diesel-powered lawn equipment; wait to mow lawns; postpone the use of paints, solvents, varnishes, and cleaning products that produce fumes; avoid sprays; tightly cap all chemicals and store them in a cool place.
- Rethink play – Replace charcoal with a propane gas grill; reduce wood burning; avoid using outboard motors, off-road vehicles, or other gas- or diesel-powered recreational vehicles.
- Conserve energy – Turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when not in use; clean heating filters; set the air conditioner at a higher temperature; use timed thermostats; choose ENERGY STAR™ products.
- Replace gas-powered yard equipment and appliances with electric. District residents can apply for rebates from the DC Sustainable Energy Utility on qualifying energy-efficient appliances and equipment while funds are available.”
- Install a programmable thermostat
- Replace your charcoal grill with propane or electric
- Clean heating and air conditioning filters every month