The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has declared Friday, July 5th, as an 'Ozone Action Day' for much of Louisiana, including the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas.
The DEQ issues such a warning when there is little to no atmospheric mixing or winds that can mix all of the air particles in the air. This allows pollutants to accumulate, leading to Moderate to High Air Quality Levels.
The Air Quality Index level for New Orleans Friday is forecast to be Code Orange - Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. It's recommended that anyone with respiratory problems limit their outdoor time on Friday.
In Southeast Louisiana, higher levels of ozone don't affect visibility, as seen in Los Angeles smog, but breathing the colorless gas can cause health problems.
Increasing ozone levels may cause unhealthy air quality during afternoon hours Friday. Active children and adults, the elderly and people with respiratory diseases, such as asthma, should avoid prolonged outdoor activities and exertion.
Breathing in high ozone contaminated air may precipitate an asthmatic attack.
People with lung problems such as COPD are at high risk of health problems as well.
For people suffering from cardiovascular disease, the risk of heart attack and sudden death can also increase.
Here are some voluntary measures residents can take to help reduce the formation of ozone:
• Drive less. Carpool, walk, and bike, combine errands and care for your car. Be sure your gas cap is on tight.
• Refuel your vehicle, mow grass and use gas-powered lawn equipment and off-road vehicles after 6 p.m.
• Postpone chores that use oil-based paint, varnishes, and solvents that produce a flame.
• If you barbecue, use an electric starter instead of starter fluid.
• Take your lunch to work or walk to lunch
• Conserve Energy in your home
More information about current air quality and what you can do to help prevent ozone formation is available online at the DEQ website www.deq.louisiana.gov. For questions, please call (225) 219-3489 (weekdays).