Tuesday was forecast to be a Code Orange Alert Day. The air quality didn't end up being quite that bad, but if it had would you know what that means and how to protect yourself?

On Code Orange Alert Days, ozone pollution is predicted to reach unhealthy levels and can be harmful for people who have respiratory problems such as asthma.

Since its summer, that means more outdoor activities. But heading outside when there is an air quality alert might not be such a good idea.

Dr. Donnie Dunagan specializes in allergy and immunology.

He said poor air conditions can be dangerous, especially for asthma sufferers.

"If they go outside during this time period, they can have an increase in cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness and pain to increased asthma symptoms and these people can get into trouble real quick,” said Dunagan.

Code Orange Alert Days are also tough on young children.

“Children love to be outside this time of year and if they spend a long period of time outside and if they spend a good amount of time when the levels are high, they're going to have problems," said Dunagan.

Nolan Cupp is one of those children who love to play outdoors. He also suffers from asthma.

His grandmother knows the risks of spending too much time in the heat, especially on days when air pollution is bad.

"It would probably tire him out and cause him to wheeze," said Vicki Harris, Nolan’s grandmother.

That's why she's limiting how much time Nolan can spend outside.

"We'll probably make sure he stays inside during the heat of the afternoon, do activities that are inside with air conditioning, we're getting ready to go to Ft. Discovery,” said Harris.

Dunagan said everyone should be careful and limit their time outdoors.

But what if you must be outside?

"If they have to go outside, they should probably go outside early in the morning because ozone levels are lower in the morning," said Dunagan.

A lot of people also like to run or exercise after they get off work.

Dr. Dunagan said that’s not a good idea because the more you work out, the more you breathe. That means you’re going to breathe in more bad air.

So, if you're going to be out in when air quality is low, limit your activity.