Ground level ozone and particle pollution affect the quality of the air we breath. The U.S. Air Quality Index is a color-coded index designed to communicate whether air quality is healthy or unhealthy for you.
For example, when temperatures rise in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, the region typically experiences several "Code Orange" air quality days. This means that air pollution concentrations are unhealthy for sensitive groups and they should take precautions. A "Code Red" day means that air pollution concentrations within the region are unhealthy for the general population and that everyone should take precautions.
When you know the Air Quality Index for your area, you can take steps to protect your health. Monitor local air quality forecasts:
When air pollution concentrations are unhealthy, consider taking these precautions: