Air quality health advisory in effect Thursday

An air quality health advisory is in effect today on Long Island and in the NYC metro region. The advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Ground-level ozone will make outdoor air today unhealthy for sensitive groups, including young children, the elderly and people with lung disease, such as asthma, according to state health officials. People in those groups should limit prolonged exposure to outdoor air and reduce all outdoor activity.

Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major component of photochemical smog, according to the State Department of Environmental Conservation.

All people should avoid prolonged physical exertion outdoors today, according to the Department of Health. Drink plenty of water to remain well-hydrated.

A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) has been established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest Air Quality situation. Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC’s website and on DOH’s website.

Ozone levels generally decrease at night and can be minimized during daylight hours by curtailment of automobile travel and the use of public transportation where available.

New Yorkers also are urged to take the following energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps:

• use mass transit or carpool instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities;
• conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips;
• turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas;
• use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees;
• close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air;
• limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters;
• set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures;
• purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and
• reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking.

Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on the Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Health websites.