Stop on Red: Reducing Exposure on High Pollution Days

RED ALERT! When air pollution levels are high, a red alert warns the public of health dangers. Poor air quality is bad for us all. It's an even greater risk for those with breathing issues.

Today, a national system reports daily air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) tracks the most common air pollutants controlled under the Clean Air Act.

To reduce exposure to poor air quality, you can monitor your local air pollution daily. It’s easy to do. Check www.airnow.gov/  for color-coded ratings in your area.

Create an Action Plan for High Pollution Days

If you need to go outside during high pollution days, it’s helpful to create an action plan – especially if you suffer from asthma or other breathing issues. During red and orange days, you should: 

• Adjust and limit outdoor exercise and activities.  
• Avoid going outdoors when high air pollution is most common. This is typically from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., says the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.
• Consider protective measures like wearing an N-95 mask outdoors.  
• Stay in a well-ventilated building, with air conditioning if possible.

Pay Attention to Environmental Triggers

Many communities are exposed to pollution. Nearby factories and power plants can release harmful chemicals into the air. Diesel exhaust fumes, agricultural burning, crop dusting and forest fires can make breathing difficult for any of us. In cities, triggers can include smog and vehicle exhaust. All these environmental triggers can provoke asthma symptoms or make breathing more difficult.

To reduce exposure, get educated. Pay attention to reports from local health departments and air pollution control agencies.

Improve Indoor Air Quality

Each of us should learn how to minimize exposure to outdoor air pollution. Beyond advocating for cleaner air, there is little we can do to change the quality of outdoor air where we live. You can, however, improve the quality of air in your home to reduce the damage done outdoors.

You can do this by using air cleaners or HEPA filters, venting gas appliances outside and avoiding wood fires indoors, says Nemeurs Kids Health.

For children and adults alike, reducing exposure to harmful outdoor pollutants and keeping our indoor air clean can go a long way toward breathing easier.

Sources: Health Based Categories of Air Quality,  United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2025;  AirNow,  AirNow.gov; ; Air Pollution and Asthma,  Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 2024; Air Pollution and Asthma,  Nemeurs Kids Health, 2024