A creepy fog has blanketed Salem, Massachusetts. Perfect for the Holiday, not for your lungs.

As Salem, Massachusetts prepares for its busiest night of the year, the township has been blanketed in a thick fog. It’s perfect for the ambiance, but not for trick or treaters’ lungs. Ongoing wildfires in Eastern Massachusetts, particularly around the North Shore region, have caused significant air quality concern over the last few days. Smoke from multiple brush fires has led to early school dismissals and event cancellations as officials work to protect public health. These fires, which have burned across hundreds of acres, are not only affecting visibility but have also pushed air quality levels into the “unhealthy” to “very unhealthy” categories according to the US EPA’s AirNow Fire and Smoke Map ( https://fire.airnow.gov/ ).

Stay Safe This Halloween

If you’re planning to be outside for Halloween, make sure to check your local air quality beforehand. Here are some quick safety tips:

• Check the Local Air Quality Index (AQI) Levels: Visit MassDEP’s air quality map or https://www.airnow.gov/ to get accurate AQI measurements and local risk assessments.
• Limit Outdoor Time: If smoke pollution levels are high, consider shorter trick-or-treat routes or moving celebrations indoors.
• Use Protective Masks: Sorry, your Halloween mask won’t cut it. An N95 mask can help filter out particulates if you need to be outside in smoky conditions. Surgical masks, like ones used during COVID-19, are less effective against fine smoke particulate.
• Close Windows and Doors: Keep your home’s indoor air clean by keeping windows shut. Don’t forget to snuff out your candles early.
• Use Reflective Tape: Poor air quality often precipitates fog which lowers visibility. Reflective tape on children’s costumes or candy bags can improve their visibility and keep them safe on their routes.
• Monitor Health Symptoms: Anyone experiencing breathing difficulties or other symptoms should move and stay indoors immediately. People with asthma or heart conditions should avoid prolonged exposure to smokey air.

We’re getting ready for a great night here in Salem. This Halloween, prioritize safety by staying informed and being proactive.