Much of the Greater Cleveland area is under a Code Maroon air quality advisory. This means air pollution concentrations are hazardous for everyone.
Published July 17, 2026
Contributed by: Daryl Thornton, MD / Division Director of Pulmonary Medicine
Air Quality is Hazardous to General Population
Tips to Staying Safe During the Air Quality Advisory
- Stay inside if you can.
- If you must go out, limit your time, avoid strenuous activities and consider wearing a fitted N95 mask.
- Keep windows closed.
- Reduce physical activity.
- Use air purifier with HEPA filter.
- Do not smoke.
Click here for important information from the Ohio Department of Health.
Who is Most At Risk?
- Children
- Older adults
- Pregnant people
- People with heart or lung conditions
If you start having trouble breathing or your symptoms get worse, contact your healthcare provider.
Important Symptoms and When to Seek Care
Call 911 and seek emergency medical attention if you are experiencing the following symptoms after being outside during the air quality advisory:
- Chest Pain
- Fainting
- Confusion
- Difficulty Breathing
Go to an Express Care if you are experiencing the following:
- wheezing
- prolonged coughing
- asthma attack that does not get better after using a rescue inhaler
Important Message Regarding Air Quality
Hear from Daryl Thornton, MD, Division Director of Pulmonary Medicine at MetroHealth.
