Smog Season Update

The 2011 smog season kicked off on April 1st and has proven to be quite active so far, with eight Smog Alerts issued that remained in effect for a total of 15 days. Smog alerts were issued on June 9th, July 1st, July 6th for a 2 day period, July 10th for a 3 day period, July 17th for a 2 day period, July 21st, July 28th for a 2 day period and July 31st for a 3 day period.

As temperatures continue to rise, residents are encouraged to take precautionary measures to protect themselves against the health risks associated with smog. Because particle and ozone pollution irritates asthma symptoms and makes it more difficult to breathe outdoors, at-risk groups such as children, the elderly and people with asthma are advised to remain indoors and/or reduce physical activity when local air quality is poor.

To keep track of the condition of the air before a Smog Alert has been issued, sign up for Enviroflash. This online system sends e-mails about the daily air quality forecast. The e-mails provide the same air quality information that local television and radio stations provide, along with suggested safety measures found on the Air Quality Index (AQI), a color-coded tool designed to communicate daily air quality levels to the public. To sign up for Enviroflash, visit www.hcdoes.org.

There are several ways in which you can help reduce the risk of smog this season:

• Maintain your vehicle—make sure tires are properly inflated and schedule regular oil changes.

• Don’t idle your vehicle—idling wastes gas and pollutes the air.

• Turn off the car—avoid drive thru lines and driving situations that require idling.

• Conserve energy—turn off lights and computers.

• Refuel after 8:00 p.m.

• Don’t top-off at the pump.

• Tighten your gas cap.

• Avoid using gas-powered lawn equipment.

• Rideshare, combine trips and eliminate unnecessary trips.

• Walk to your destination or ride a bike.

• Avoid driving when possible.