When the Air Turns Smoky: Staying Healthy During Poor Air Quality Days

This summer, it feels like our weather menu is set to “raining, hot, or smoky.” The Canadian wildfires have sent waves of smoke across the U.S., including here in the St. Croix Valley, and poor air quality has become a more regular concern.

Here’s what you should know to stay safe when the air turns hazy:

• Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) daily at https://www.airnow.gov/state/?name=minnesota. Anything over 100 means sensitive groups should limit outdoor time; over 150 means everyone should take precautions.

• Stay indoors when air quality is poor—keep windows and doors closed.

• Use air purifiers or run your HVAC system with a clean filter.

• Wear a mask outdoors—N95 or KN95 masks can help filter fine particles.

• Skip strenuous outdoor activities like running or yard work when smoke is present.

• Protect pets—limit their outdoor time too.

Wildfire smoke isn’t just an inconvenience—it can aggravate asthma, heart conditions, and other health concerns. By keeping an eye on the AQI and taking small precautions, we can protect our health until clearer skies return.