Tuesday August 9th has been designated an Ozone Action Day.
Ozone forms in the heat of the day, using volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are emitted during morning rush hour. The VOCs interact with oxides of nitrogen (NOx), emitted by industry, diesel trucks, and construction equipment. Together, in hot sunshine, VOCs and NOx make ozone.

So if you can avoid putting any VOCs from gasoline into the air in the morning, by waiting to refuel until night, it really does make a difference! So does ride sharing during your morning commute - it cuts the traffic (and all those emissions) in half!
Please due your part in reducing Ozone levels. Here's how you can help!

* Decrease Single Occupancy Vehicle (SOV) Trips. Walk rather than drive to local stores. Bicycle to further destinations. Take a bus, carpool, or vanpool to work and recreational activities.

* Combine Trips. Combining errands into a single trip (trip chaining) will reduce the number of miles you travel in your car, and also reduce air pollution.

* Take the Bus / Ride the Train. This summer's focus is to encourage people to take alternate transportation as a means to reduce automobile emissions. Taking the bus or riding the train will also save you GAS money!

* Don't Refuel Vehicles or Equipment. If you absolutely have to, do it after 7:00 P.M., avoid spilling or dripping gasoline, and don't top off the tank. Always make sure that gas caps are tightly sealed.

* Avoid Lawn Care Activities Involving Gasoline-Powered Equipment. Lawn equipment engines are generally inefficient and can be a considerable source of pollution.

* Limit Solvent Use. This includes charcoal lighter fluid, dry cleaning fluids, and oil based paints. Generally speaking, if a match would ignite it, a liquid will contribute to ozone formation as it evaporates.

* Reduce Power Demand. Cutting back on air conditioning, turning fans and lights off when not home or in the room, and minimizing trips to the refrigerator will decrease demand on and emissions from electric power generation plants.

Thanks for your help!
Yours truly,
Your friendly neighborhood weatherman
Jeff Mackel