Philly-Area Air Could Be Dangerous To Some Tuesday: PA DEP

PHILADELPHIA — Environmental officials said Tuesday's air quality in the Philadelphia region could be dangerous to some people due to high levels of ozone.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Monday said Tuesday will be an air quality action day.

Officials said the day's ozone levels will reach the code orange range, meaning the air could be unhealthy to sensitive groups.

Young children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems — such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis — are especially vulnerable to the effects of air pollution and should limit outdoor activities Tuesday, the department said.

Officials said as high pressure starts to slide off the East Coast, a southwest wind and sunny skies will pump up the temperature and humidity to make it feel very uncomfortable, with heat indices in the 100 degree to 108 degree range.

Ozone will be peaking in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Group range during the afternoon.

The public is encouraged to help reduce ozone pollution by

• Driving less by carpooling or using public transportation;
• Combining errands to reduce vehicle trips;
• Limiting engine idling;
• Refueling cars and trucks after dusk; and
• Conserving electricity by setting air conditioning to a higher temperature and turning off lights that are not in use.

Reducing fine particulate matter (PM-2.5) pollution in the air can be aided by:

• Limiting or eliminating fireplace and wood stove use;
• Avoiding the open burning of leaves, trash, and other materials; and
• Avoiding the use of gas-powered lawn and garden equipment.