Air Quality Alert in effect as smoke from wildfires rolls through

An Air Quality Alert is in effect for Thursday in Clark, Darke, Greene, Miami, Montgomery and Preble counties as smoke from wildfires in Canada and the western parts of the U.S. blows through the region.

The Air Quality Index is 101, which means that the air is considered unhealthy for those in “sensitive groups,” according to the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission, which issued the alert in conjunction with the Regional Air Pollution Control Agency.

Children, seniors and those with respiratory diseases should decrease prolong or heavy exertion. However, the general public most likely won’t be affected. While it is OK to be outside during an Air Quality Alert, people should take more breaks and do less strenuous activity.

Coughing, shortness of breath or unusual fatigue could indicate a problem and anyone experiencing those symptoms should contact their doctor.

People are encouraged to do the following to reduce ground-level ozone:

  • Avoid driving if possible. If not, try to combine running errands or delaying them until the Air Quality Alert is lifted. While driving, avoid excessive idling, especially at drive-through windows.
  • Refuel vehicles after 8 p.m. if possible, or wait until the advisory is over. Make sure your gas cap is on tightly to avoid letting gas fumes escape.
  • Limit the use of gasoline-powered equipment around the home, such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, power trimmers and shredders.
  • Mow lawns after 6 p.m.

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