The Pima County Department of Environmental Quality has declared Aug. 5 an Ozone Action Day for Tucson and its surrounding areas due to elevated levels of ground-level ozone pollution. The notice warns particularly sensitive groups, including children, active adults, and those with respiratory conditions, to reduce outdoor exertion between noon and sunset when the risk of ozone pollution is higher, as per Pima County.
Ozone at ground level is a health risk that can lead to respiratory issues such as shortness of breath and throat irritation. Children and individuals with existing respiratory diseases are notably susceptible, and are advised to limit strenuous outdoor activities to avoid to significantly reduce their exposure to this pollutant. Those experiencing symptoms should not hesitate to seek medical attention, according to Pima County.
Ozone pollution emanates from various sources, including motor vehicle exhausts and industrial emissions. PDEQ reminds the public that certain actions can reduce the generation of this harmful ozone, such as opting to bike or use public transportation, avoiding unnecessary idling of vehicles, refueling cars after sunset, and using low-VOC products. Real-time data on air pollution levels, provided by PDEQ's air quality monitoring network, can be consulted online.
