It’s not unusual to see hazy, humid skies across the Saint Louis area in August. But because of the wildfires burning in the Pacific Northwest, the smoke has caused the heat and humidity to feel heavier than usual.
This isn’t an isolated weather event affecting Saint Louis and the surrounding Mississippi River valley. In fact, several major cities across the Midwest and East Coast have been covered by the West’s wildfire smoke, causing the heat and humidity to stick around for even longer. Alongside these trapped high temperatures are unhealthy ozone levels.
Through air quality data gathered by AirNow, most levels vary between moderate and unhealthy for sensitive groups. Those closest to the fires and smoke in the Pacific Northwest face hazardous conditions that prevent even healthy adults from venturing outdoors.
According to the American Lung Association, prolonged exposure to moderate levels can be irritating or harmful to individuals who face respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD. To avoid getting too winded or irritated by the poor air quality outside, we’ve gathered a few tips to keep you and your family safe.
- Avoid Or Limit Exercising Outdoors – If you absolutely must work or exercise outdoors, then do so in the early morning hours when temperatures and ozone levels are at their lowest. It’s also important to take indoor breaks as often as possible, especially if you get winded from trying to work outdoors. A dry, air-conditioned environment will allow you to catch your breath and hydrate.
- Use Public Transportation Or Carpool When You Can – Carbon emissions from our cars only add to the heightened ozone levels we’re experiencing due to the wildfire smoke. Limiting your car usage through public transportation, biking, or sharing a ride, can help significantly reduce pollution levels from rising later in the day.
- Stay Indoors As Much As Possible – If you suffer from asthma or any chronic lung conditions, it’s wise to spend as much time inside as you can. Consider exercising indoors by walking around at a mall, going to the gym, or one of the city’s free museums.
- Save Energy At Home – Another factor that can increase ozone levels involves the amount of energy we use at home. Turn off lights and raise your thermostat whenever you’re away from home to lessen power emissions, and costs on your next utility bill.
Your Trusted Indoor Air Quality Company in St Louis, MO
To better protect yourself from the heat, cold, and outdoor allergens, it’s important to make sure your home is properly insulated and ventilated. Not only can solid insulation and indoor air quality keep allergies at bay, but it can also make your home energy-efficient and more comfortable, particularly during extreme weather conditions.
Our technicians with Classic Aire Care can meticulously inspect your home for proper air filtration, vent flow, and any leaks. We want to make sure your home is a safe haven from pollen, mold, pollutants and more.
Just some of the indoor air quality solutions we offer for your home include duct cleaning and inspections, energy analysis, and air cleaner installation. To schedule an appointment with us, and address your insulation or air quality needs, please call (314) 329-1943.
