Air Pollution Action Day Declared

Chicago, IL - An Air Quality Action Day has been declared today for northwest Indiana. The atmospheric conditions which have been in place for the past couple of days is causing the air to sink which is trapping harmful pollutants like ozone near the surface of the earth. The build up of these pollutants can be especially harmful to people with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, as well as people with heart disease. Exposure to particulate air pollution can trigger asthma attacks and cause wheezing, coughing, and respiratory irritation in individuals with sensitive airways. Recent research has also linked exposure to relatively low concentrations of particulate matter with heart attacks and premature death. Those at greatest risk are the elderly and those with pre-existing respiratory or heart disease.

It is advised that on Air Quality Action Days to avoid physical exertion between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. If possible, limit outdoor activities or stay indoors when air pollution levels are high. Also, individuals should avoid exercising near high-traffic areas. This is especially important for those individuals who are considered to be in the high risk category.

While most people think of industry as the main source of air pollution, approximately half of the hydrocarbons in ozone smog come from actions of ordinary citizens as we drive our cars, maintain our homes, and use a variety of volatile chemicals.

Top 10 things that you can do to help!
1. Limit driving. Ride share, walk or bike
2. Take public transportation.
3. Avoid excessive idling and abrupt starts.
4. Use E85 in our flexible fuel vehicle.
5. Use a charcoal chimney or electric starter instead of lighter fluid when grilling.
6. Limit use of household products that cause fumes.
7. Conserve energy at come to reduce demands on power plants.
8. Do not burn leaves and other yard waste
9. Avoid burning wood in fireplaces.
10. Avoid using lawnmowers and other gasoline-powered equipment.

Click here to get the latest Air Quality Index

Heat Advisory Continues