Another Code Red Air Quality Action Day In Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia's air has once again been deemed unhealthy to breathe due to lingering smoke from Canadian wildfires.

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health said due to the fine particulate matter in the air, some people may experience health effects.

Members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.

Air quality may vary throughout the city and throughout the day, with some areas having significantly worse quality depending on the prevailing winds.

Officials hope the Code Red will end by Friday morning, but the forecast could change.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has predicted Friday's particulate matter levels will be in the moderate range.

Summer camps run by the city will move their programming indoors, and city pools will be closed for the day.

For those who must be outside during the hazardous period, the city is making masks available free of charge at the following locations:

• Health Department Resource Hubs (locations available in the City’s Resource Hub blog post; the Mt. Enon site is closed this week).
• All Philadelphia Police Districts.
• Philadelphia Fire Department stations.

Residents can get two masks per person and can also get supplies for individuals at home who cannot make it themselves. Masks are adult-sized only.

Residents and businesses are strongly encouraged to voluntarily help reduce fine particulate matter air pollution by:

• Avoiding the open burning of leaves, trash, and other materials; and
• Avoiding the use of gas-powered lawn and garden equipment.