Westport Fire Department Advises Residents To Limit Outdoor Activity During Air Quality Alert

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Fire Department is advising residents, particularly children, older adults and people with heart or lung conditions, to limit prolonged outdoor exertion as wildfire smoke from Canada affects air quality in Connecticut.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection issued an Air Quality Alert on Wednesday that remains in effect through Thursday because of elevated levels of fine particulate pollution.

According to DEEP, air quality could worsen on Thursday, with conditions ranging from "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" to "Unhealthy" in Fairfield, New Haven and Litchfield counties.

On the Air Quality Index, readings from 101 to 150 are classified as "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups," while readings from 151 to 200 are considered "Unhealthy," meaning health effects may extend to the general public and may worsen for sensitive groups.

DEEP advises children, older adults, outdoor workers and people with heart or lung conditions to minimize time outdoors and avoid strenuous activity. Anyone experiencing throat irritation should move activities indoors, and buildings should close fresh-air intakes.

"Smoke from these wildfires is affecting air quality throughout our region," Fire Chief Nick Marsan said. "We encourage residents to pay attention to how they feel, reduce outdoor activity if air quality is poor, and take extra precautions."

Westport Emergency Management said it will continue monitoring conditions in coordination with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, DEEP and the National Weather Service and will provide updates as needed.