Maryland Under Code Red Air Quality Alert Due to Wildfire Smoke

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has announced a Code Red Air Quality Alert set to begin on Friday, July 17. This alert is a response to smoke originating from wildfires in Canada, which is being transported across the northern United States and into Maryland.

Most areas of the state will experience unhealthy air quality levels classified as Code Red, while Western Maryland will face even more severe conditions, reaching Code Purple, indicating very unhealthy air quality.

Wildfire smoke can travel vast distances, and current weather patterns are facilitating its movement into Maryland. The MDE emphasizes that air pollution at this level poses risks to everyone, not just those in sensitive groups.

Individuals most vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality include:

• People with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Individuals with heart disease
• Older adults
• Pregnant women
• Young children
• Anyone who works or exercises outdoors

To mitigate the impact of the smoke, the MDE recommends the following precautions:

• Limit outdoor time and avoid strenuous activities outside.
• Keep windows and doors closed; if available, run air conditioning on recirculate mode.
• Utilize a portable air purifier in your primary living space.
• Postpone outdoor exercises and youth sports until air quality improves.
• If outdoor activity is necessary, keep it brief, avoid exertion, and consider wearing a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask to reduce smoke exposure.

Residents are advised to monitor for symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or unusual fatigue. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, medical attention should be sought. In cases of severe difficulty breathing or chest pain, calling 911 is recommended.

The MDE will continue to provide updates regarding air quality conditions as the situation evolves.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).