More to the Story with Staley: Tennessee Air Pollution

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — Bad air: whether it be here, there or everywhere. Has it been a bit worse this summer than in times past? Experts say yes.

“Particularly more this year. From wildfires to heat and drought conditions. All contributing to a lot of unhealthy air,” said respiratory expert Dr. Nikki Vars McCullough.

But Dr. Nikki McCullough says it’s more than just the well documented wildfires in Canada, or for that matter, the fires in Hawaii.

She says it’s factory emissions. It’s exhaust. It’s dusty, dirty roads. They all come into play, now more than ever.

McCullough says being prepared is vital right now. For example, those COVID-19 masks we know so well? She says keep using them.

“We all got used to using these masks over the past 3-4 years. Keep one with you to use outside,” McCullough suggested.

McCullough says staying indoors is best, but not 100% in the clear.

Keeping windows and doors shut is critical. Good home filtration and air purifiers: those come into play too.

McCullough says to remember that air might look clear when it’s not. And also keep in mind that poor air likes to travel.

“We’re all in the same boat. Bad air can travel a long way,” Dr. McCullough said. “All areas of the country have been affected this summer.”

So, experts say be on guard, no matter where you live, be it the city or in a rural area. Because bad air will find you.