DENVER -- The summer ozone season is here, and that means it is time to pay attention to the local air quality, and take simple steps each day to help reduce ozone-causing emissions.
Ground-level ozone shouldn't be confused with the stratospheric ozone layer several miles above the Earth's surface.
The naturally occuring stratospheric layer protects us from excessive ultra-violet radiation from the sun. Ground-level ozone is completely different and can be harmful to your health.
Much like during the winter with the daily red or blue pollution advisory, between June 1 and August 31, we wait to see if an Ozone Action Day Alert will be issued for the seven-county Denver Metropolitan Area, Fort Collins, Greeley, and Colorado Springs.
Ground-level ozone pollution is formed when emissions from everyday items combine with other pollutants and essentially "cook" in the heat and sunlight.
The weather plays a key role in ozone formation. The highest levels are often found during the summer months when temperatures climb into the 80s and 90s with light winds.
Some sources for ozone include local industry, gasoline-powered vehicles and lawn equipment, and household items like paints, stains, and solvents.
Exposure to ground-level ozone can cause respiratory problems, reduced capacity in the lungs, asthma attacks, stinging eyes and throat, chest pains, and coughing. The elderly and young children are at the highest risk for being affected by ground-level ozone.
Interestingly enough, ozone levels here in the Front Range aren't just a weekday problem, nor prone to just downtown Denver. In fact, some of the highest levels have been measured in and along the Front Range foothills.
So what can you do to help reduce ozone levels in the Front Range? Here are some voluntary actions that will definitely make a difference in our Front Range Air Quality.
At home: Use water-based paints, stains, and sealants Save solvent-based painting and stripping projects for the spring or fall Use paint brushes and rollers instead of sprays Tightly cap all solvents (gasoline, paint thinners, strippers, degreasers) and store in a cool place Avoid using household solvents on ozone action days
Around the yard: Use electric or manual lawn equipment If using gas-powered lawn equipment, use models that are environmental friendly, which includes most since 1997 Maintain all gas-powered lawn equipment by changing the air filter, oil, and corroded spark plugs each season Keep the mower deck free of grass build-up Use a funnel to refuel equipment and avoid even small spills and drips Mow in the evening, after 5 PM, and not at all on Ozone Action Alert Days Use an electric BBQ starter or charcoal chimney instead of lighter fluid
On the go: Keep your car tuned up and serviced properly "Stop at the click" when fueling up --- don't overfill your gas tank, that automatic shut off on the pump does have a purpose Refuel in the evening, after 5 PM Tighten your gas cap after refueling Don't idle for more than 30 seconds --- turn off your car for long waits or stops Keep your tired properly inflated Park in the shade to reduce fuel evaporation from the gas tank Try and reduce your driving whenever possible by carpooling ot using public transportation, such as Light Rail or City Bus
Watch 7NEWS each afternoon during the weather segment and we'll show you on the "today" or "tomorrow" forecast graphic.
You can also find out by looking on the main weather page of TheDenverChannel.com.
The current advisory and forecast is also available by telephone. In the Denver/Boulder area, call 303-758-4848.
If you are in the Fort Collins, Greeley, or Colorado Springs areas, call 1-888-4THE-AIR.
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