Ozone air pollution advisory issued for Tucson area

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TUCSON (KVOA) – The Pima County Department of the Environment will issue a High Level Advisor to Ground Level Ozone Air Pollution for the Tucson area.

Any person who is sensitive to air pollution can experience shortness of breath, cough, throat irritation, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. The ozone levels can be elevated this weekend.

Anyone who is sensitive to air pollution should limit their outdoor exertion between noon and 6:00 p.m. During this period, increased ozone pollution is more likely.

Any form of vigorous outdoor physical activity can result in faster, deeper breathing. This allows ozone to penetrate the parts of the lungs, which increases the risk of injury.

Children, people with respiratory problems, adults who are active outdoors, and certain people who are sensitive to pollutants may be at increased risk.

Motor vehicle exhaust, industrial and power plant emissions, gasoline fumes, chemical solvents and natural sources emit nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds that form ozone in sunlight and in the heat.

There are several measures that can be taken to reduce the production of ground-level ozone, including:

• Reduce driving – combine errands into one trip.
• Take the bus, walk, or share a ride with friends and family.
• Avoid idling your vehicle’s engine. It wastes gas and causes air pollution.
• Refuel your car after 6:00 p.m. in the summer when vapors are less likely to form ozone.
• Always stop when you click when refueling.
• Make sure your fuel cap is securely closed after refueling.
• Avoid using gas powered lawn and garden tools.
• Check your tire pressures monthly to reduce fuel consumption and the associated pollution.
• Save electricity to reduce emissions from power plants.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story was written by Brendan Jacques of News 4 Tucson.

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