Summer is in full swing and so is the heat. When temperatures reach the 90s, ground-level ozone pollution could be elevated, too.
Good up high, bad nearby
Ozone can be found in two locations – in the Earth’s upper atmosphere where it protects us from UV radiation, and at ground-level on the Earth’s surface.
When ozone is found at ground-level, it is considered a harmful air pollutant. Ground-level ozone pollution is formed by photo-chemical reactions between oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight and heat. Because of how it forms, ozone pollution is only a concern during the hot, summer months – typically late June through August in Spokane.
Ozone affects the respiratory system. Exposure to elevated levels of ozone pollution can cause respiratory problems and aggravate asthma in children. Even healthy adults can experience a 15-20% reduction in lung function from prolonged exposure to low levels of ground-level ozone pollution. During the summer, it’s important to monitor the Air Quality Index and take health-based precautions.
It is also important to understand your impact on ozone levels and how you can work to lessen the effect of ozone on hot summer days.
On days when the ozone reaches an unhealthy level:
- Conserve electricity and set your air conditioner at a higher temperature.
- Choose a cleaner commute—share a ride to work or use public transportation. Bicycle or walk to errands when possible.
- Refuel cars and trucks after dusk.
- Combine errands and reduce trips.
- Limit engine idling.
- Use household, workshop, and garden chemicals in ways that keep evaporation to a minimum, or delay using them.
- Use manual or electric yard and garden tools.
- Hold off using gas-powered lawn equipment until evening or a cooler day.
- If you use a charcoal barbecue, start it with an electric probe instead of lighter fluid.
Learn more about ozone pollution and how you can help.
