Josh Mehlman

NYC air quality has reached 'Very Unhealthy' levels (AQI 201+). At this level, everyone, not just sensitive groups, may experience serious health effects. What to do: ✅ Reschedule or move all unnecessary activities indoors ✅ All New Yorkers should avoid strenuous and prolonged (more than one hour) outdoor activities ✅ Keep windows closed when indoors ✅ If you use AC, close the fresh air intake so smoky air stays out ✅ If you have an air purifier, run it at the highest setting ✅ If you must be outside, a high-quality mask (N95/KN95) is recommended by health officials to reduce smoke exposure, but it's not a substitute for staying indoors ⚠️ Heat note: Very hot weather can be MORE dangerous than poor air quality. If you don't have AC, move to a cool indoor space, a library, a friend or family member's home, store, or another air-conditioned place. Listen to your body. If you have watery eyes, a scratchy throat, or difficulty breathing, reduce physical activity and go indoors. Some people are more sensitive to smoke and should avoid unnecessary outdoor activity: people with heart or respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD, people who are immunocompromised, older adults, people who are pregnant, and infants and children. 📞 Call 911 immediately if you or someone you are caring for has severe difficulty breathing or chest pain. If symptoms persist after air quality improves, contact a health care provider or seek urgent care. Most healthy people recover quickly from smoke exposure without long-term effects, but take precautions now. 📲 Track conditions: airnow.gov 🔔 Get alerts: sign up for @NotifyNYC ✅ More tips: nyc.gov/beready for Air Quality Events