Free Masks Handed Out Friday To Help Residents Combat Poor Air Quality From Wildfires

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, MD — Residents can pick up free protective masks Friday to help combat any problems caused by the reduced air quality.

"While it is still strongly encouraged to stay indoors as much as possible, we understand this is not feasible for everyone," Prince George's County Health Officer Dr. Sanmi Areola said. "Wearing a mask will help reduce how much pollutants you are exposed to. It is one of the proven ways to safeguard your lungs and respiratory system from the bad effects of exposure to pollutants in the air you breath. The safety of our community is of utmost importance to us and the health department is committed to providing valuable resources to ensure every resident is healthy."

The northeastern U.S. currently is experiencing poor air quality due to smoke from the Canadian wildfires.

All residents who must go outdoors are encouraged to shield themselves with a high-quality N95/KN95 or P-100 mask or visit one of the following locations to obtain a mask today, June 9:

• Headquarters Building: 1701 McCormick Dr, Largo; 9-4 p.m.
• Cheverly Health Center: 3003 Hospital Drive, Cheverly; 9-4 p.m.
• Leonard Dyer Regional Health Center: 9314 Piscataway Rd, Clinton; 9-4 p.m.
• Maternal and Child Health Center at Laurel: 14207 Park Center Drive Suite #102, Laurel; 9-4 p.m.
• Southern Regional Technology and Recreation Complex: 7007 Bock Rd, Fort Washington; 9-7 p.m.
• Laurel-Beltsville Senior Activity Center: 7120 Contee Rd, Laurel; 9-7 p.m.
• Prince George's Sports & Learning Complex: 8001 Sheriff Rd, Landover; 9-7 p.m.