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The rapidly expanding assortment of air quality sensors in recent years includes several low-cost and easily deployable air quality monitors. These are readily available to individuals and communities and are being used by many citizens who want to investigate air quality in their neighborhoods and communities. Although these sensors are not up to the standard of EPA Federal Reference Method or Federal Equivalence Method monitors, they are providing rapid air quality information that can play a role in understanding and avoiding high pollution periods which is beneficial to reducing public exposure and protecting health. These new monitoring tools are also helping assist air quality managers with implementing the nation’s air quality standards.

The role of these sensors in the wildland fire world remains to be seen, however they are receiving increasing attention. Some comprehensive information sources on these include:

Tools

EPA Air Sensor Toolbox
This website provides information for citizen scientists and others on how to select and use low-cost, portable air sensor technology and understand results from monitoring activities. The information can help the public learn more about air quality in their communities. Short videos have recently been added to the Air Sensor Toolbox.

Presentations