Air Quality Information
Important information about poor air quality:
- Anyone can become sick from inhaling wildfire smoke.
- This smoke is made up of tiny airborne particles, fumes, and gases such as carbon monoxide.
- The biggest concern with wildfire smoke are the tiny particles that are not filtered by the nose and throat.
- Any time you breath in those particles, they travel deep in the airways and cause inflammation. As a result, you may experience things like shortness of breath, chest tightness, coughing or wheezing.
- People who are more likely to experience the negative effects of wildfire smoke include individuals with chronic respiratory conditions or heart disease, smokers, young children, pregnant women, and those who are age 65 and over.
- A properly fitted N-95 mask can help reduce the amount of smoke being inhaled.
How to interpret the Air Quality Index:
- Air quality is considered safe when it's between 0 to 50.
- Air quality ranging from 50 to 100 signals an increase in harmful particles in the air.
- When air quality rises above 100, individuals with underlying respiratory and heart disease, seniors, children, and those who are pregnant should stay indoors.
- And when air quality is above 200, everyone should stay indoors.
What the Air Quality Index means for VeloSano Bike to Cure:
- Airnow.gov will serve as the official tool for monitoring the Air Quality Index. VeloSano officials will monitor this site before and during the event.
- An air quality index sign, with QR code, will be posted at each rest stop and venue. Riders and volunteers are encouraged to scan the code and check the AQI status throughout Bike to Cure weekend. Air quality reaching 101-150 can be unhealthy for sensitive groups. Individuals with underlying respiratory and heart disease, seniors, children, and those who are pregnant should stay indoors and participate virtually.
- Air quality reaching 151-200 is considered unhealthy. Individuals with underlying respiratory and heart disease, seniors, children, and those who are pregnant should stay indoors and participate virtually.
- Air quality reaching 201+ is considered very unhealthy. Our highest priority is keeping participants, supporters, and the community safe and should we reach this level, all outdoor VeloSano Bike to Cure events and activities will be canceled.
