How to Check Air Quality Levels Before Going Outside?

September, 20 2024 • 4 min read

How to Check Air Quality Levels Before Going Outside?

Do you think the air you breathe outdoors is suitable for a long and healthy life? Living in metropolitan cities comes with endless perks, but the air quality it offers is one of the major cons. Understanding the importance of clean air is essential because we don't know if the air we inhale is good or bad for our respiratory health. Determining the air pollutants through the eye or nose is impossible.

Bad air quality can lead to many severe lung health diseases. Hence, knowing how to care for you and your family's lung health is essential. To give you a clear understanding of the same, here is a blog that discusses everything you should know about good or bad air quality.

What is the Air Quality Index?

AQI, or the Air Quality Index, warns people about poor air quality. The AQI monitors smog and air particles that are pollutants. These pollutants are released from smoke, factories, power plants, and vehicles. The report is usually released through radio, newspapers, and television. Here is a table showing different Air Quality Indexes for your reference.

Name Index Value

Good 0 to 50

Moderate 51 to 100

Unhealthy for 101 to 150
Sensitive Groups

Unhealthy 151 to 200

Very Unhealthy 201 to 300

Hazardous 301 to 500

Ways to Check Air Quality Levels

Poor air quality can cause many health issues related to respiratory conditions like asthma, COPD, or pneumonia. It is worse for seniors who have already been diagnosed with severe respiratory conditions. Therefore, checking the air quality level before taking seniors outdoors is essential.

• Check Air Quality Index Websites and Apps: You can check the AQI through websites and apps. These websites and apps release the index daily. It ranges from 0 to 500; the higher the index, the worse the air quality. The information mentioned above gives you a brief overview of the same.
• Check Local News : Your local news channel and weather report offices will provide information about daily air quality. You should keep a close eye during the seasons when pollution is higher, like summer. Regularly checking these reports will help you avoid going outdoors during polluted days.
• Look for Visual Indicators: You can also get some clues about air quality besides checking AQI indicators. If you encounter hazy skies, poor visibility, and inadequate air, you can expect poor air quality. Some air pollutants cannot be determined through normal eyes; therefore, check AQI reports.
  

Checking air quality levels before going outside is essential in protecting your respiratory health, particularly for seniors. Using AQI websites, apps, and other resources, you can stay informed about the air you breathe and make decisions prioritizing your well-being. Remember, when air quality is poor, it’s best to limit outdoor activities, stay indoors with windows closed, and use air purifiers to ensure you breathe clean, healthy air