{"id":191,"date":"2025-07-22T12:15:06","date_gmt":"2025-07-22T16:15:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.temple.edu\/actonairphl\/?p=191"},"modified":"2025-07-22T13:58:12","modified_gmt":"2025-07-22T17:58:12","slug":"poor-air-quality","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.temple.edu\/actonairphl\/2025\/07\/22\/poor-air-quality\/","title":{"rendered":"Protecting Yourself and Your Family from Poor Air Quality"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Now that you have an air monitor, how do you use that information to reduce health impacts of poor air quality?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Reading AQI<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your PurpleAir sensor will report data using the US’s air quality index (or AQI). This scale goes from 0-500 and is sorted into six groups based on health impact. Sensitive groups include those with existing heart and lung conditions, children, and the elderly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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AQI Chart<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Everyday Use of AQI<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Air quality information can be used to determine when to go outdoors or perform strenuous physical activity. If you or a member of your family falls into any sensitive groups, checking air quality daily can help reduce severe health problems. <\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

When air quality is very bad, shut all windows, use an indoor air filter, and limit time outdoors. If you must be outside, take frequent breaks from strenuous activity, wear quality face masks, and go back indoors if you have difficulty breathing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Improving Air Quality<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although outdoor air quality is largely influenced by large industrial pollution and environmental conditions, improving air quality in your neighborhood is still possible through individual and community actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To improve indoor air quality…<\/p>\n\n\n\n