New York City is giving out free KN95 masks as the region is enveloped in smoke from Canadian wildfires.
But how much do they help? Here’s what to know, from the air quality index to masking up.
Air Quality in NYC
In the New York City metropolitan area, the Air Quality Index, or AQI, is forecast to hit 200 on July 16, according to the state’s website, indicating that the air is unhealthy. “Some members of the general public may experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects,” according to the AQI.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani warned New Yorkers of potentially dangerous conditions, saying the mix of air quality and hot temperatures “is a serious threat to New Yorkers’ health.” The temperature is expected to reach a high of 89 degrees Thursday, according to AccuWeather.
NYC Is Giving Out KN95 Masks. Do They Help?
Some services have been activated amid the conditions.
The city has cooling centers open, which can be found at finder.nyc.gov/coolingcenters.
NYC is also giving out free KN95 masks. Locations can be found at on.nyc.gov/freemask.
A well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask could help filter out particles, according to officials.
“If you spend time outside, a well-fitting KN95 or N95 mask offers protection,” the city said. “Cloth masks and surgical masks do not provide meaningful protection against fine particulate matter.”
The biggest recommendation, however, is to stay indoors, particularly for those who are sensitive to poor air quality.
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