The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has announced that an Ozone Action Day will be in effect for the Austin metropolitan area on Saturday, May 18, signaling that air quality could pose a risk to sensitive groups. According to official statements, residents are urged to curtail driving between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., when ozone levels are most likely to spike, and also after 5 p.m. if possible.

Recommendations to limit the Day's harmful effects include refueling vehicles early in the morning or at night, telecommuting with supervisor approval, and opting for lunches at the office to avoid unnecessary travel. Other actions suggested for the public include carpooling or using public transportation and avoiding vehicle idling, the TCEQ emphasizes the collective role in minimizing ozone production, saying, "Let’s all do our share to keep the manufacturing of ozone at a minimum!"

Sensitive groups, such as young children, the elderly, and people with respiratory issues, are particularly vulnerable when ozone levels rise. The planned Ozone Action Day is part of a larger effort to raise awareness and encourage citizens to take proactive measures to improve air quality.

Residents are also advised, if feasible, to postpone off-site meetings or to use telephone conferencing instead of traveling. The goal of these guidelines is straightforward: to ensure that the air remains as clean as possible for all Austin denizens. Your cooperation, the TCEQ notes, will be appreciated by not just your own lungs, but those of your loved ones and neighbors alike.