The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality (PDEQ) has called an ozone action day for the Tucson area, signaling concern for the air we breathe. High levels of ground-level ozone, a component of smog, can have adverse health effects, particularly for sensitive groups such as individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, active adults, and children.
Outdoor activities between noon and 6 p.m. are discouraged today, as this is when the ozone is expected to be thickest. Intentionally breathing in more ozone through heavy exertion could be particularly harmful as it allows the pollution to deeply enter the lungs. According to a PDEQ release, "Individuals who are especially sensitive to ozone air pollution may experience shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation, wheezing, and breathing discomfort."
Several factors contribute to the production of ground-level ozone. These include motor vehicle exhaust, emissions from industrial facilities, and power plants, and the use of organic solvents, along with natural sources. These activities release various nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds into the air, which then react with sunlight and heat to form ozone.
In an attempt to reduce these ozone levels, PDEQ has shared a list of cautionary steps for residents to lessen their contribution to the pollution. They recommend not only reducing driving but also avoiding using gas-powered yard tools. "Re-fuel your car after dark or during cooler evening hours when vapors are less likely to form ozone," advises the department. Simple measures like checking your car’s tire pressure and conserving electricity can also make a difference.
PDEQ's real-time air pollution data can be found on their website, which details the current levels of pollutants at 16 air quality monitoring sites throughout the region. For those interested in staying informed about air quality issues, PDEQ offers a sign-up for Air Pollution Action Day advisories on their newsroom website.
