Code Orange and Code Red air quality affects Central and Southwest Virginia regulations regarding the great outdoors

Wildfire smokePhoto byDominik KissonUnsplash

Virginians need to heed take the warning

Normally it is advised that the great outdoors is healthy and beneficial and we should spend as much time in it as possible but for the next few days, there has been a shift in Virginia. The smoke from the Canadian wildfires has settled into the Commonwealth and affecting summer camps and outdoor workers temporarily. In Southwest Virginia, there is a Code Orange warning and residents are told to remain inside as much as possible for the next few days until the smoke lifts.

Code Orange means that the AQI is between 101 and 150, and while members of sensitive groups can experience health effects, the general public is less likely to be affected.

WildfirePhoto byMalachi BrooksonUnsplash

Central Virginia residents are in more danger than those in Southwest Virginia

According to News 12 Julie Henderson the Director of Environmental Health at the Virginia Department of Health, said for those working in the Code Red area they should take frequent breaks and if they can, stay inside if they have to be outside for their jobs, stay inside while it’s a Code Red. Those who have Asthma or other respiratory, lung, or heart issues should wear an N95 mask.

Code Red refers to the tier between 151 and 200, and it means the air is unhealthy for some members of the public. But everyone in these areas should reduce exposure to pollution, especially those at increased health risk, such as people with asthma.

Soon this will be over and Virginians will be able to enjoy the great outdoors and breathe the fresh air once again. Until that time please heed the warnings and be on the lookout for the updates.