Health Guidance for Larimer County Amid Poor Air Quality
The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment (LCDHE) is encouraging residents and visitors to stay aware of air quality conditions, especially when planning to spend time outdoors, as smoke from wildfires and elevated ozone levels may affect the northern Front Range this holiday weekend. Whether you're enjoying a hike, bike ride, camping trip, or attending a community event, knowing the day's air quality can help you decide when and how long to be outdoors.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Regional Air Quality Council have issued a Multiple Pollutants Action Day Alert for Larimer County and much of the Front Range through at least 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 2. During this time, ozone and fine particle pollution may reach levels considered Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.
"Wildfire smoke can travel hundreds of miles, affecting air quality even when fires are not nearby," said Tom Gonzales, Larimer County Public Health Director. "People who are more sensitive to air pollution should pay close attention to air quality conditions and consider reducing prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity when pollution levels are elevated."
People most likely to be affected include:
- Adults age 65 and older
- Children and teens
- Pregnant people
- People with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other lung conditions
To reduce your exposure:
- Air quality conditions can change throughout the day. Sign up for air quality alerts from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (cdphe.colorado.gov/air-pollution-and-smoke) or the Regional Air Quality Council (www.raqc.org), and check local air quality forecasts before spending extended time outdoors.
- Modify your outdoor plans when air quality is poor, especially if you are in a sensitive group. Consider shortening your outdoor workout, choosing a less strenuous activity, or moving exercise indoors until air quality improves. Keep indoor air as clean as possible by closing windows and doors when smoke is present and using air conditioning on recirculation, if available.
- Consider using a portable HEPA air cleaner or a DIY box fan air filter if smoke persists.
- Pay attention to any signals that indicate the air quality is impacting your health. If you develop coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing, move indoors and contact your healthcare provider.
Air quality can change quickly depending on weather patterns and wildfire activity. Residents are encouraged to monitor conditions throughout the day and adjust outdoor activities as needed.
For more information about air quality and ways to protect your health, visit larimer.gov/airquality.
