High Heat, Humidity Trigger Air Quality Alert In Rhode Island

COVENTRY, RI — An air quality alert was declared for Rhode Island Thursday, with scorching temperatures and high humidity expected to raise ground-level ozone to unhealthy levels statewide.

The alert will be in place from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., the Department of Environmental Management said.

High ozone levels can cause throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and aggravation of asthma and other respiratory ailments., the Rhode Island Department of Health warned. The elderly, children and anyone with an underlying respiratory condition like asthma are most at risk.

To stay safe, Rhode Islanders are encouraged to limit time outdoors as much as possible and stay in air-conditioned areas when conditions are worst during the afternoon and early evening hours.Take the following steps to help reduce ozone and ground-level pollution:

• Limit driving. Avoid unnecessary car trips. Carpool, walk or ride the bus or a bicycle whenever possible.
• Minimize starts and avoid unnecessary acceleration. Vehicle emissions are highest during starting and acceleration.
• Reduce idling. Avoid congested traffic and lines at drive-through windows.
• Drive your lowest emission vehicle. Use the most fuel-efficient, usually the newest, car you have whenever possible.
• Maintain your vehicle. Get a tune-up at the beginning of each summer.
• Minimize lawn mower emissions. Tune-up your lawn mower and use electric or handpowered equipment if possible.
• Limit use of solvent-based household products. Use water-based or low solvent paints, varnishes, cleaners, and personal care products.
• Limit barbecue emissions. Use an electric starter instead of lighter fluid to start charcoal fires, or use an electric, natural gas, or propane grill.

Related: Power Restored To Most Rhode Islanders As Temperatures Soar