Darien Health Department Issues Update On Air Quality

DARIEN, CT — While conditions have improved on Thursday, the air quality in Darien is still in the "unhealthy range," according to an update from the Darien Health Department.

Darien's Director of Health David Knauf provided the following information Thursday morning:

• To see the current and forecasted air quality in our area, the health department recommends this website. It has an interactive map showing air quality and provides additional recommendations for outside activities.
• According to the Connecticut Department of Public Health, those with underlying medical conditions, children, and the elderly are considered sensitive populations, most at risk for experiencing symptoms from elevated air pollution, and should remain indoors when "hazardous" or "very unhealthy" conditions exist.
• The CT DPH recommends that people with asthma, and heart and lung conditions avoid outdoor exercise while these poor air conditions persist.
• The health effects from air pollution can include chest tightness, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, throat irritation, respiratory tract and eye burning, chest pain, dizziness or lightheadedness, and other symptoms. Asthma symptoms may flare up as well.
• Even healthy adults who spend prolonged periods outdoors working or exercising should minimize their outdoor exertion because poor air quality can impact even those not considered vulnerable.
• CT DPH recommends that those with underlying medical conditions have their medications readily available and seek medical attention if these issues worsen.
• Wearing a KN95 or N95 is effective at filtering smoke. If available, consider wearing them while outdoors until the air quality improves.