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What Are Air Quality Action Days?

Air Quality Action Days are called when air quality in the Baltimore/Washington region is expected to reach unhealthy levels. These days occur during the summer months when hot, humid, and stagnant weather conditions contribute to the formation of air pollution. Poor air quality affects children, individuals with respiratory and heart ailments, and older adults. Even healthy people can experience problems associated with high levels of air pollution.

When an Air Quality Action Day is forecasted, all participants are either e-mailed or faxed an unhealthy air alert. The media is also notified. On unhealthy days, we ask individuals and organizations to take action to protect their health and also to reduce air pollution.

Public and private sector Air Quality Action Days participants have agreed to develop voluntary Air Quality Action Day plans. These plans range from notifying employees and customers of an Air Quality Action Day to rescheduling operational activities. Air Quality Action Days empower government agencies, businesses, and residents in the Baltimore/Washington region to do their share for cleaner air. During Air Quality Action Days, all sectors of the community will be called on to take voluntary actions to reduce air pollution. Every action makes a difference!

On Code Red Air Quality Action Days, the following buses are free:

Disclaimer: the Ride Free program is subject to budget limitations or may change. Please check with your local transit provider for more information.

Interested in starting an Air Quality Action Day program at your organization? Visit the Clean Air Partners Web site for further information.