Thursday, March 28, 2024

Ozone Action Days – What Are They?

Since the ozone forecast season started in March, the DFW Metroplex has experienced two Ozone Action Days. And as part of the City’s efforts to keep you informed those alerts were posted to the City of Southlake Facebook page.

So what is Ozone Action Day? It’s a public notification from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TECQ) when weather conditions combine with air pollution to form high levels of ground-level ozone. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, ground-level ozone can lead to decreased lung function, pain with deep breaths and trigger asthma symptoms.

“It is important for individuals that have respiratory conditions, who primarily work outside to remain aware of ozone conditions,” said the City’s Emergency Management Coordinator, Amanda Meneses. “Being exposed to these ozone-related threats could cause unexpected medical emergencies for people with pre-existing medical conditions.”

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality also recommends several strategies aimed at reducing ozone pollution. Here are just a few ways you can help:

  • Mulch or compost leaves and yard waste
  • Consider trading wood for gas logs
  • Keep your car, boat and other engines properly tuned
  • Be sure your tires are properly inflated
  • Consider carpool, public transportation, biking or walking whenever possible

Look to the City’s Facebook page for further Ozone Action Days as they are issued.  You can also check day to day air quality by visiting airnow.gov. For more information about how you can keep our air clean visit takecareoftexas.org.

An image of a family bowling and dining

Photo of a solar eclipse