The Advance Warning System (AWS) disseminates information to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs through their service providers. Please share the important information below with your clients and other agencies or individuals to empower them to make informed decisions.
NYC HEAT EMERGENCY PLAN EXTENDED INTO THURSDAY AS CANADIAN WILDFIRE SMOKE MOVES INTO REGION
AIR QUALITY FORECAST TO REACH UNHEALTHY LEVELS THURSDAY
For Thursday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to reach Level Red – Unhealthy (AQI 151–200). Air pollution at this level may affect everyone's health, but individuals in sensitive groups are at greater risk.
We are asking service providers to share the following information with clients and take the steps below to help reduce exposure to poor air quality.
1. Identify clients who may be at higher risk. Conduct outreach to clients who:
- Are 65 years or older
- Are pregnant
- Have asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions
- Spend extended periods outdoors for work or daily activities
- Have difficulty recognizing or communicating worsening health symptoms
2. Adjust services for clients as needed:
- When possible, conduct appointments and activities indoors.
- Reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities.
- Encourage clients to limit time outdoors, especially if they experience symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
- Remind clients with asthma or chronic lung disease to keep their quick-relief medication readily available and follow their healthcare provider's guidance.
- Monitor clients for signs of respiratory distress during in-person visits.
3. Prepare your staff:
- Inform staff of the Air Quality Health Advisory before conducting outreach.
- Encourage staff to limit strenuous outdoor activity when possible.
- Ensure staff know the signs and symptoms of poor air quality exposure and when to recommend medical attention.
Key safety reminders for clients and caregivers
- Reduce strenuous outdoor activities whenever possible.
- Take frequent breaks if you must be outdoors.
- Monitor for symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort.
- Individuals with asthma or other chronic lung conditions should keep their quick-relief medication on hand and follow the advice of their healthcare providers.
- Check the latest Air Quality Index at www.AirNow.gov.
- Register for Notify NYC or call 311 to receive emergency alerts and updates.
For more information on today's AQI forecast, visit:
Sample Client Conversation
"I wanted to let you know there's an Air Quality Health Advisory in effect today. The air may be unhealthy, so if you can, reduce strenuous outdoor activities and spend more time indoors. If you have asthma or another lung condition, keep your quick-relief medication nearby and follow your care plan. If you notice symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath, contact your healthcare provider if needed. You can also sign up for Notify NYC or call 311 to receive emergency alerts and updates."
Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping New Yorkers safe.
The Advance Warning System (AWS) alerts organizations who work with people with disabilities and access and functional needs to various types of hazards and emergencies in New York City that may affect people's independence and daily lives. Participating organizations receive public preparedness and emergency information that they can relay to their clients and other similar agencies. If you work for an organization that serves people with disabilities or access and functional needs you can subscribe for AWS Alerts at the following link: https://www.advancewarningsystemnyc.org/aws
Please do no reply to this e-mail. This mailbox is not monitored. To make changes or receive assistance with your account, please login to the AWS website or contact us through the AWS website. If you think you or someone else may have an emergency, call 911 immediately.