CHENANGO COUNTY — The Chenango County Health Department is alerting the community that the Air Quality Index in Chenango County has now entered the Hazardous Range. The alert is estimated to continue through Thursday, June 8 due to the wildfires occurring north of our region in Quebec, Canada. The alert could last longer.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Fine Particulates, with the air quality level for outdoor air in Chenango County reaching above 200 on the Air Quality Index (AQI) scale. The higher the index scale, the more pollution in the air, and the greater the health concern.

It is recommended that everyone stay indoors and reduce activity levels to reduce their risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants, including the very young, older adults, and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease should stay indoors. Those with related healthcare concerns should consider contacting their healthcare provider.

Community members should avoid outdoor activities altogether and should consider moving physical activities indoors or rescheduling them. High quality masks, such as N95 and KN95 masks, can be worn outdoors to reduce the inhalation of fine particles from the air. Cloth masks and surgical masks are not as effective at reducing inhalation of pollutants.

To monitor Air Quality Conditions throughout the day, please visit www.airnow.gov or download the AirNow App to your smartphone. For additional information, please visit the NYS DEC website at on.ny.gov/nyaqi or call the Air Quality Hotline at 800-535-1345.

Persons with questions or requiring additional information may contact the Chenango County Health Department at 607-337-1660.

-Information provided by the Chenango County Health Department