Air pollution
The air pollution forecast for each day is expressed using a scale from 1 (best) to 10 (worst). The scale is divided into four bands: low (1, 2 and 3), moderate (4, 5 and 6), high (7, 8 and 9) and very high (10). This scale is known as the ‘Daily Air Quality Index (DAQI)’ and was invented by health and air pollution experts working for the UK Government for communicating the harmful health effects of short-term periods of elevated air pollution to the people that need to know. The table below contains the health advice that accompanies the different air pollution bands, for at-risk individuals and for the general population.
Remember that air pollution levels are normally low in York and for most of the time you will not notice any effects on your health. It's important that you do not become alarmed or panic when you receive an alert. On the handful of days each year when air pollution is above normal levels, the alert is designed to help you ensure you have any necessary medication at hand and to prepare your day ahead to reduce your exposure.
| Air pollution banding | Value | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Low |
1-3 |
Enjoy your usual outdoor activities. |
Enjoy your usual outdoor activities. |
|
Moderate |
4-6 |
Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, who experience symptoms, should consider reducing strenuous physical activity, particularly outdoors. |
Enjoy your usual outdoor activities. |
|
High |
7-9 |
Adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, and particularly if they experience symptoms. People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often. Older people should also reduce physical exertion. |
Anyone experiencing discomfort such as sore eyes, cough or sore throat should consider reducing activity, particularly outdoors. |
|
Very High |
10 |
Adults and children with lung problems, adults with heart problems, and older people, should avoid strenuous physical activity. People with asthma may find they need to use their reliever inhaler more often. |
Reduce physical exertion, particularly outdoors, especially if you experience symptoms such as cough or sore throat. |
*Adults and children with heart or lung problems are at greater risk of symptoms. Follow your doctor's usual advice about exercising and managing your condition. It is possible that very sensitive individuals may experience health effects even on low air pollution days. Anyone experiencing symptoms should follow the guidance provided above.
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