Notification issued 07-14-2026 at 09:29 PM.
NYCEM and DOHMH are advising New Yorkers to prepare for potential deteriorating air quality from the Canadian wildfires beginning Wednesday, 7/15. Stay inside as much as possible when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is above 100 and stay in a cool space during periods of extreme heat. If you must be outside when air quality is poor, consider wearing a well-fitting KN95 or N95 mask to reduce inhalation of fine particulate matter.
To protect the health of New Yorkers, especially those at greatest risk, free KN95 masks are available at public library branches across the five boroughs, including Brooklyn Public Library, Queens Public Library, and select New York Library locations. The City is working to expand availability at additional distribution sites and will announce further locations if air quality worsens. Stay hydrated & seek medical attention if you experience severe difficulty breathing or chest pain.
For more information, visit: https://on.nyc.gov/4wHAwdq
