Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors and take precautions to stay safe and healthy

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH - The National Weather Service has issued an Air Quality Alert for Cuyahoga County and several other Northeast Ohio counties. Conditions are expected to last through Friday, July 17 and possibly into the weekend.

Poor air quality can have a more drastic effect on people in vulnerable populations including the elderly, children, and those with preexisting medical conditions.

Cuyahoga County’s air is being impacted by wildfire smoke from Canada. Wildfire smoke combined with high temperatures leads to poorer air. Poor air quality can impact people with asthma, heart disease, and other respiratory conditions.

Use these helpful tips to stay safe:

• Sensitive groups including children, older adults, and those with asthma, heart disease, or lung conditions should take extra precautions and stay indoors if possible.
• Limit time outdoors, especially during the afternoon and early evening when ozone levels are often highest.
• Stay inside and in an air-conditioned area with windows and doors closed if possible.
• Reduce strenuous outdoor activity such as running, biking, and yardwork.
• If you must be outside, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
• Check your city's website for locations of cooling centers.
• The Division of Senior and Adult Services maintains a map of agencies and resources to assist older adults.

To help improve the air we breathe:

• Limit unnecessary car trips.
• Avoid idling vehicles during high heat.
• Carpool if possible.
• Wait to mow the lawn or use an electric mower.

Find updates on the County's air quality at AirNow.Gov.

Be sure to stay up to date on all vital information by signing up for Cuyahoga County's emergency notification system, READY NOTIFY, today!