Should You Wear a Mask During Red Air Quality Advisory in Illinois?

Here's why you should consider wearing an N95 mask if you'll be outside for a long period of time the next few days.

If you stepped outside at all today, you know the air was thick, foggy, and made it pretty difficult to breathe for most people.  Illinois was under a red air quality advisory, which means the air wasn't just bad... it's straight up unhealthy.  Don't believe me?  Check your Weather App!

Should You Wear a Mask During Red Air Quality Advisory in Illinois?

Yes, an N95 mask is highly encouraged.

Read More: How Wildfire Smoke Is Impacting Air Quality In The Midwest 

The Illinois EPA and Department of Public Health are urging all Illinois residents to be cautious going outside the next few days, especially in central and Northern parts of the state.  Cities like Rockford, Peoria, Chicago, and surrounding suburbs are actually seeing some of the worst air quality in the world because of the Canadian wildfire smoke drifting over to us.

The air is filled with something called "particulate matter" which is basically tiny pieces of pollution that can seriously mess with your lungs and heart.  If you exercise outside, go for a jog, or even ride your bike during this time, be extremely careful.  You may experience difficulty breathing becase of the smoke.

Here's what you can do to protect yourself from the Red Air Quality Advisory:

• Stay indoors as much as possible and keeps all your windows closed
• Run your A/C on recirculate mode if it has fresh air intake
• Avoid lighting candles, smoking indoors, or doing anything that adds pollution to your space
• If you have to work outside for a long period of time, wear an N95 mask

Read More: Illinois Shoppers May Have Purchased Vodka-Filled Celsius Cans 

According to weather experts, the air quality might improve, but it's not guaranteed.  Don't brush off the symptoms of chest pain, wheezing, or shortness of breath.  Call 911 immediately if you think you're at risk.