New York state issues air quality advisory due to Canadian wildfires

As fine particulate matter circulates through the atmosphere due to the Canadian wildfires, the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an air quality health advisory across New York for June 29 that starts at midnight and remains in effect through 11:59 p.m. Thursday.

The air quality is forecasted to reach what is called unhealthy air quality index levels in Western and Central New York, Eastern Lake Ontario and the Adirondacks. In the rest of the state, including Long Island the air quality is anticipated to be unhealthy for sensitive groups that might experience health effects. The general public is not likely to be affected.  

In early June, states across the East Coast also endured bad air because of the Canadian wildfires.

The DEC and health department issue air quality advisories when DEC meteorologists expect levels of pollution, either ozone of fine particulate matter to exceed an air quality index value of 100.  

New Yorkers can take these energy saving and pollution-reducing actions:

Use mass transit

Conserve fuel and reduce exhaust by combining needed motor vehicle trips.

Turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas.

Use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is needed set to 78 degrees.

Close blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and save cooled air.

Limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run appliances at off-peak hours, after 7 p.m.

Set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures.

Buy appliances energy efficient lighting with the Energy Star label.

Reduce or eliminate outdoor burning minimize indoor smoking.