The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ) has raised an alert in the Tucson area about high levels of ground-level ozone that could be detrimental to the public's health, particularly on July 23. As reported by Pima County, sensitive groups may experience a range of unpleasant symptoms from shortness of breath to wheezing due to the current air quality.
It's advised that those with a sensitivity to ozone, which includes children, active adults, and individuals with respiratory diseases, should be wary of spending time outdoors from noon till sunset when the ozone levels tend to be higher, as per Pima County. Engaging in physical activity during these times can result in heavier breathing, potentially allowing more ozone to penetrate deeper into the lungs - an undesirable scenario.
In an effort to combat the high ozone levels, PDEQ has provided the community with a list of measures that can be taken to minimize ozone production. Among these are the suggestions to reduce driving, use public transportation, avoid unnecessary idling of vehicles, and refuel cars after dark or in the cooler evening hours to prevent vapors from contributing to ozone formation during periods of intense sunlight and heat, as detailed by Pima County.
To stay informed during these critical periods and for future Ozone Action Day advisories, residents can sign up for alerts on the PDEQ website, keeping themselves aware and prepared to take necessary precautions.
