High ozone levels in Maricopa County—what you can do & who will be affected
An ozone high pollution advisory has been issued for Maricopa County by ADEQ.
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County, according to a recent government press release. The HPA, which comes into effect on Wednesday, April 17, is due to anticipated ozone levels that are expected to exceed the federal health standard.
What to know about ozone
Ozone, a pollutant at ground-level, forms when volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) and nitrous oxides (NOx) react in sunlight. The primary contributors to these pollutants are automobiles, but industries, power plants, and products such as solvents and paints also contribute. Ozone levels generally peak in the afternoon.
Vulnerable populations
The most vulnerable populations to ozone pollution include children, senior citizens, outdoor workers or exercisers, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory diseases. Ozone can cause respiratory irritation, exacerbate asthma, reduce the immune system’s ability to ward off respiratory infections, and induce symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, headaches, nausea, and throat and lung irritation.
Current restrictions and recommendations
The HPA has brought about certain restrictions in Maricopa County. Government employees and contractors have been prohibited from operating leaf blowers. Furthermore, the burning of wood in residential fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, and other similar outdoor fires has been limited.
Employers and Travel Reduction Program Transportation Coordinators have been advised to activate their HPA Plans immediately. ADEQ also recommends that the general public, especially children and individuals with respiratory problems, limit their outdoor activity during the HPA.
In an effort to reduce ozone pollution and improve air quality, residents and businesses are also encouraged to limit driving, refuel vehicles after dark, avoid long drive-thru lines, and use low-VOC or water-based paints and sealants.
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