Air Quality and Community Health

Hey Danvers! Air quality affects all of us, both indoors and outside, and simple changes can help you breathe easier every day.  

Air pollution isn’t always visible. Even when the sky looks clear, pollutants like ozone and fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke can linger in the air. These pollutants are linked to respiratory issues, asthma attacks, heart conditions, and other serious health problems. The good news? Knowing when air quality is poor gives you the power to protect yourself and your family. 

Here's what to know and what you can do to stay healthy and protect our shared air. 

Check the Air Quality Before You Head Out 

Ozone pollution is most common on hot, sunny days, and wildfire smoke can drift in from hundreds of miles away. Both can irritate your lungs and make it harder to breathe—especially if you have asthma or other respiratory issues. That’s why it’s important to check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before spending time outside. The AQI tells you how clean or polluted the air is and what precautions to take. 

• Before you go outside, check the current AQI for Danvers at AirNow.gov 

• Sign up for local alerts, which can include major air quality alerts: here and here 

Everyday Choices That Improve Air Quality 

While poor air quality can feel out of our control, there are everyday actions that make a real difference—especially on high ozone days. Driving less by carpooling or combining errands reduces the emissions that lead to ground-level ozone. Idling your car, even for just a few minutes, contributes to local pollution and wastes fuel. Mowing your lawn with a gas-powered mower also adds to air pollution. 

When we all make small shifts in our habits, the collective impact is big. Danvers residents can find simple, practical ways to reduce emissions and protect our air through the Resilient Danvers dashboard. 

• Explore more sustainable actions at resilient.danversma.gov/what-you-can-do 

Protecting Vulnerable Residents on Bad Air Days 

Not everyone feels the effects of poor air quality the same way. Children, older adults, and people with asthma, COPD, or heart disease are especially at risk. On high AQI days, these groups should avoid strenuous outdoor activity, stay indoors with filtered air, and follow their health care provider’s instructions closely. 

The EPA offers clear guidance on how to stay safe and reduce health risks during air quality alerts. Knowing your AQI and planning ahead can help prevent adverse impacts. 

• Learn how to protect your health during poor air days at AirNow.gov/aqi-and-health. 

Indoor Air Quality and the Climate Connection 

While outdoor air quality gets most of our attention, indoor air pollution can be just as harmful. Gas stoves, heaters, and other appliances can release carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and other invisible pollutants into your home. Over time, this indoor pollution can worsen asthma, irritate lungs, and increase overall health risks. 

Switching to electric appliances improves indoor air quality and supports Danvers’ climate goals. The Town offers rebates to help residents make the switch and reduce both pollution and energy use (and save money on energy costs!). 

• Find electrification rebates and upgrade options at danversma.gov/272/Energy-Conservation-and-Rebates 

Thanks for reading and for doing your part to support a more resilient Danvers!