8/28/2007
Media Contact:
Steve Hardiman,
(317) 327-2053 |
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High Ozone Levels Predicted for Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Potential for high ground-level ozone readings may affect sensitive groups
INDIANAPOLIS – The city of Indianapolis forecasts Wednesday, August 29, 2007 as a Knozone Air Quality Action Day for ozone. The region's air quality may become unhealthy for individuals who are sensitive to air pollutants, and is categorized as "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.
Small changes in behavior on the part of individuals and businesses can prevent the formation of ground-level ozone pollution. The public is asked to follow these guidelines:
- 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.
Individuals – especially active children, the elderly and anyone suffering from lung disease – should also monitor their health on Knozone Air Quality Action Days. People who have any concerns about how air pollution affects their health should seek the advice of a physician.
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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