The Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) Air Quality Program has issued an orange Ozone Action Alert for Tuesday, Sept. 1. This means the air is expected to contain unhealthy levels of ground level ozone, a pollutant that forms on hot, sunny days and can cause health issues — especially for children, older adults, and people with asthma or heart conditions.
“The combination of extreme heat, stagnant weather conditions and pollution transported into our region has created the perfect conditions for elevated ozone level,” said Karen Clawson, air quality program manager. “Ground-level ozone can affect everyone’s health, especially children, older adults and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. We encourage residents to check the AirNow app for current air quality conditions and take simple actions to reduce emissions, such as carpooling, combining errands, avoiding unnecessary idling, fueling vehicles after sunset and delaying gasoline-powered lawn work.”
What is ozone?
Ozone pollution is formed when emissions from vehicles, lawn and garden equipment, and other sources react in heat and sunlight. Environmental factors — such as warm, sunny weather; low wind speeds; and lack of rain — increase the likelihood of poor air quality.
What to do
The two most important things residents should do on Ozone Action Alert days are:
Protect your health
Ozone pollution can cause a variety of problems — even in healthy adults — including chest pains, coughing, nausea, throat irritation and difficulty breathing. People who are sensitive to air pollution, including children, older adults and people with breathing or heart problems, should limit outdoor activity between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Everyone should consider scheduling outdoor activities before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m.
Additional tips for outdoor events and activities:
- Download the AirNow app or check AirQKC.org to stay updated on current air quality.
- Know the symptoms of ozone exposure, such as coughing, throat irritation or shortness of breath, and take breaks if they occur.
- Prioritize hydration, especially during hot weather.
- If you have asthma or other respiratory conditions, keep necessary medications — such as inhalers — readily available.
People who do have to spend time working or playing outdoors should take frequent breaks.
Reduce pollution
More than half of all emissions that lead to ozone pollution are caused by everyday activities such as driving and yard work. To help reduce air pollution, you can postpone mowing and wait until evening to refuel vehicles. If you live close to where you work, consider riding a bike or walking instead of driving. Both options produce zero emissions and the exercise is great for your health. Try to schedule walking and biking trips before 10 a.m. or after 7 p.m., and avoid prolonged exposure to outdoor air.
MARC issues the SkyCast each afternoon from March 1 through Oct. 31. SkyCast information is also available via the air quality information line, 816-701-8287, on social media at www.x.com/airqkc and from area media outlets.
