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click to sign up for EnviroFlashEnviroFlash Notification System

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What is it? EnviroFlash is an automated, zip code based, electronic alert system that warns people when air quality is likely to be poor in their area. EnviroFlash was created and is operated by EPA; however it couldn’t exist without daily submissions from the Air Quality Meteorologists in each state.

Where is it? EnviroFlash covers ALL of Maine!

Who is encouraged to subscribe to EnviroFlash? Those who are affected by poor air quality and those who provide care for or are responsible for the welfare of people impacted by poor air quality should subscribe. The following people are especially encouraged to subscribe:

  • anyone with a heart or lung disease (such as asthma),
  • anyone who is chemically sensitive,
  • parents of asthmatics,
  • school nurses,
  • coaches,
  • athletic directors,
  • daycare workers,
  • elder care workers,
  • doctors,
  • hospitals, and
  • summer camps (especially athletic camps.

How do I subscribe? Click on the map or follow this link to subscribe to EnviroFlash. You will be taken to EPA’s EnviroFlash subscription page where you provide your email address, name (optional) and zip code. EnviroFlash automatically assigns you to the nearest forecast location. For regular email users we suggest you accept the default settings for all but the forecast category. Few people will want to select the Good (green) AQI level because this triggers an email every day of the year! Those who choose to receive the alerts on their cell phone will want to select the ‘short’ format. Important note on receiving text messages on your cell phone.

On the subscription page enter the email address associated with your cell phone and set the format to ‘short’.

AT&T/Cingular: yourtendigitnumber@txt.att.net
Sprint: yourtendigitnumber@messaging.sprintpcs.com
T-Mobile: yourtendigitnumber@tmomail.net
US Cellular: yourtendigitnumber@mms.uscc.net
Verizon Wireless: yourtendigitnumber@vtext.com

If you do not know the email address associated with your cell phone contact your service provider. NOTE: While there is no fee to use EnviroFlash, standard text messaging rates do apply.

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Which category should I select? Forecasts broadcast by EnviroFlash are based on the Air Quality Index (AQI). We suggest that those who are sensitive to pollution and those who have lung or heart disease should consider selecting the ‘Moderate’ (yellow) level. You will receive alerts more frequently, but that will help you plan your activities to reduce your risk. For everyone else, we suggest that you select ‘Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups’ (orange) forecasts. It is important to note that healthy people, especially children, who work, play or exercise outdoors are also considered a sensitive group.

When will I get alerts? Maine DEP’s Air Quality Meteorologists have set up EnviroFlash to send emails out after 4 pm when tomorrow’s forecast matches or exceeds the AQI level you selected. Additionally, if there is a special situation Maine DEP can have EnviroFlash send out emails when appropriate.

Can I revise my EnviroFlash Subscription? Yes, you can revise your subscription at any time to change the AQI category or your email address. You can also subscribe to more than one location if you live in one area and work or frequent another area.

If you have any problems or want more information contact us, (207) 287-2437