7/16/2006
Media Contact:
Steve Hardiman,
[317] 327-2053
Margie Smith-Simmons, [317] 327-4669 |
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Monday has been forecasted a Knozone Air Quality Action Day for ozone
Monday has been forecasted a Knozone Air Quality Action Day for ozone
Potential for high ground-level ozone readings may affect sensitive groups
INDIANAPOLIS – The city of Indianapolis has forecasted Monday, July 17, 2006 as a Knozone Air Quality Action Day for ozone as the region's air quality may become unhealthy for sensitive groups, or the color "orange" on the Air Quality Index (AQI).
Tomorrow's AQI forecast indicates that ground-level ozone levels will be elevated. Ground-level ozone is the key component in urban and regional smog. Smog is formed when harmful emissions from a variety of sources react with sunlight. Because heat and sunlight are important in its formation, ground-level ozone is more common from April through September.
Many scientific studies have associated ground-level ozone pollution with serious health problems, such as aggravated lung disease and decreased lung function, and it can trigger and intensify asthma attacks. Children, the elderly and people already suffering from lung disease are especially vulnerable to its effects.
Residents and businesses are asked to make small changes in their behavior to prevent the formation of ground-level ozone pollution. These steps include:
Fill up gas tanks and mow lawns after 6:00 p.m.
Don't idle your car unnecessarily. Turn off the engine whenever possible.
Carpool or ride the bus.
Combine errands into one-trip.
Conserve electricity. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
Always speak to a physician about any air pollution-related health concerns. Individuals – especially active children, the elderly and anyone suffering from lung disease – should also monitor their health on Knozone Air Quality Action Days.
Knozone is a year-round voluntary air pollution reduction program for Indianapolis-Marion County. The program educates the public about the effects ground-level ozone (smog) and fine particles (soot) on public health and the environment and promotes clean air strategies that help clean the air. For more information, please visit www.knozone.com or call (317) 327-4AIR for current air quality information.
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