Beloit Health System Air Quality Alert

BELOIT, WI. (July 16, 2026) - Beloit Health System wants to ensure everyone's safety during the low air quality, caused by the wild fires . The forecasted temperatures and low air quality have triggered severe air quality alerts across multiple communities. In response, Beloit Health System is issuing vital steps to keep you safe during these alerts.

To help families stay protected, Dr. Roger Kapoor, Senior Vice President, has outlined critical, evidence-based safety steps.

"It is crucial to stay air quality aware and follow these basic steps during the low air quality alerts, said Dr. Kapoor, of Beloit Health System"

Monitor Local Air Quality Index (AQI)

• Check: Use tools like AirNow.gov to track real-time local conditions.
• Understand: Action is required when the AQI exceeds 100 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups).
• React: Cancel outdoor events completely if the AQI reaches the "Purple" or "Hazardous" ranges.

Secure Indoor Breathing Environments

• Seal: Keep all home windows and exterior doors tightly shut.
• Recirculate: Set your central air conditioning to recirculate indoor air only.
• Filter: Run a dedicated portable air purifier equipped with a true HEPA filter.
• Avoid: Do not burn candles, use gas stoves, or vacuum during high smoke events.

Implement Personal Protection

• Mask: Wear a certified, well-fitted N95 or KN95 respirator mask when outdoors.
• Limit: Avoid all strenuous physical outdoor activities, including running or cycling.
• Hydrate: Drink extra fluids to help keep your airways moist and clear of irritation.

Identify High-Risk Individuals

• Vulnerable: Children, pregnant women, and older adults face elevated health risks.
• Pre-existing: Individuals with asthma, COPD, or heart disease must monitor symptoms closely.
• Action: Keep rescue medications and inhalers fully stocked and immediately accessible.

Emergency Warning Signs (Seek Immediate Medical Care)

• Severe Dyspnea: Experiencing a sudden, terrifying inability to catch your breath.
• Chest Tightness: Feeling intense pressure, squeezing, or crushing pain in your chest.
• Neurological Changes: Experiencing sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion, or a feeling of fainting.
• Cyanosis: Noticing a blue or gray tint on your lips, face, or fingernails.
• Uncontrollable Coughing: Coughing so violently that it prevents speaking or causes vomiting.

Common Mild to Moderate Symptoms (Manage and Monitor)

• Airway Irritation: Experiencing a scratchy throat, dry cough, or mild wheezing.
• Sinus Congestion: Dealing with a runny nose, sneezing, or sinus pressure.
• Eye Distress: Having stinging, red, watery, or itchy eyes.
• Headaches: Developing a dull headache caused by smoke odor and minor oxygen shifts.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lethargic due to increased respiratory effort.

Beloit Health System emphasize, that if you or a family member experience severe shortness of breath, persistent chest pain, or continuous coughing, you should seek immediate emergency medical care.