North Dakota could feel effects of Canadian wildfire smoke. Here’s how to stay healthy

North Dakota could be affected by smoke from Canadian wildfires in the coming days, the state Department of Environmental Quality said in a July 10 news release.

The department advised residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, to consider limiting prolonged outdoor activities when conditions are smoky in their location.

The air quality across much of central and eastern North Dakota ranged from moderate to unhealthy by the late morning of July 11, according to AirNow.gov.  

With active wildfires and changing wind patterns, air quality can be unpredictable – it may improve at times or get worse quickly, the department said.

What to do when the air quality is unhealthy

If you can see or smell smoke in the air, here’s how to protect your health:

• Stay inside with the windows and doors closed.
• Limit or avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
• Set air conditioners or vehicle vents to recirculate indoor air.

What is the air quality index?

The air quality index is a color-coded tool that shows the level of air pollution and associated health effects. Here are the six different categories and what they mean:

• Green, 0 to 50: The air quality is good, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
• Yellow, 51 to 100: The air quality is moderate, and there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are sensitive to air pollution.
• Orange, 101 to 150: The air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups. The general public is less likely to be affected.
• Red, 151 to 200: The air quality is unhealthy, and some members of the general public may experience health effects.
• Purple, 201 to 300: The air quality is very unhealthy. The risk of health effects is higher for everyone.
• Maroon, 301 or more: The air quality warrants a health warning for emergency conditions, and everyone is more likely to experience health effects.