Air Quality Alert Continues Today, July 18
Air Quality Alert Continues Today, July 18 Oswego County
sdgtalks
July 18, 2023
Oswego County Health Department Advises Residents to Take Precautions for Air Quality
The Oswego County Health Department advises residents to continue following safety precautions to limit their exposure to air pollutants. The air quality health advisory issued by the New York State departments of Health (NYSDOH) and Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) yesterday for most of the state continues today, July 18.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Oswego County’s air quality is currently classified as “unhealthy for sensitive groups” with an index of 111 as of 10 a.m. These air quality issues are a result of ongoing wildfires in Canada.
“As the air quality worsens, people with heart and lung disease, older adults, children, and teens should take extra precautions and avoid outdoor physical activities,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “The EPA also recommends using respirators such as KN-95 masks to help filter out smoke and ash particles from the air.”
Availability of KN-95 Masks
The health department has KN-95 masks available for pick up. Residents can come to the main entrance (Entrance B) on the west side of the building located at 70 Bunner St., Oswego between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. There is a mask limit of two per person.
Health Effects and Vulnerable Groups
Exposure to elevated levels of fine particulate matter can cause short-term health effects such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and shortness of breath. It is important for residents to monitor those with underlying medical conditions, such as asthma, COPD, and heart disease, as these conditions can be exacerbated by air pollutants.
“Children, the elderly, and people with heart or breathing problems may also be particularly sensitive to this pollution,” said Dr. Christina Liepke, medical director for the Oswego County Health Department. “We ask residents to keep an eye on their loved ones and seek medical care if they are experiencing worsening signs and symptoms.”
Precautions for Outdoor Activities
Most people should avoid strenuous outdoor activities, keep outdoor activities short, and consider moving physical activities indoors or rescheduling them. It is also recommended to keep windows and doors closed to protect indoor air quality and use air purifiers or air conditioners with high-efficiency filtration if available.
Precautions for Pets
Pet owners are advised to take precautions with their animals as well. Pets are especially sensitive to air pollutants, which can cause respiratory issues or worsen existing conditions. Pet owners should monitor their animal’s symptoms and possibly limit outdoor activities or contact their pet’s veterinarian if needed. They can create a safe indoor environment for their pet by ensuring proper ventilation and filtration.
Monitoring Air Quality
People can monitor Oswego County’s air quality status at https://www.airnow.gov/?city=Oswego&state=NY&country=USA.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
The article discusses the health impacts of air pollutants caused by wildfires in Canada. This connects to SDG 3, which focuses on promoting good health and well-being for all. Additionally, the article mentions the need for residents to take precautions and protect indoor air quality, which relates to SDG 11’s goal of creating sustainable cities and communities. Finally, the wildfires and resulting air pollution are a consequence of climate change, aligning with SDG 13’s objective of taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
- SDG 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management.
- SDG 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
The article highlights the need to limit exposure to air pollutants to prevent health issues, which aligns with SDG 3.9’s target of reducing deaths and illnesses caused by air pollution. The emphasis on protecting indoor air quality and the impact of air pollutants on cities connect to SDG 11.6’s target of reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, including air quality. Finally, the wildfires and resulting air pollution demonstrate the need to strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards, as stated in SDG 13.1.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Air Quality Index (AQI)
- Number of deaths and illnesses related to air pollution
- Adverse per capita environmental impact of cities
The article mentions that the air quality index (AQI) for Oswego County is 111, indicating unhealthy air quality. This AQI can be used as an indicator to measure progress in reducing air pollution and achieving SDG 3.9. Additionally, monitoring the number of deaths and illnesses related to air pollution can provide insights into progress towards SDG 3.9. The adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality, can be measured through indicators such as emissions data and waste management practices to track progress towards SDG 11.6.
4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being | 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. | – Air Quality Index (AQI) – Number of deaths and illnesses related to air pollution |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | 11.6: By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management. | – Adverse per capita environmental impact of cities |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries. | – Monitoring climate-related hazards and natural disasters |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: oswegocounty.com
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