Ozone Awareness Alert for San Antonio Residents
Published on October 9, 2024
SAN ANTONIO (October 9, 2024) – The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has declared an Ozone Action Day for San Antonio on Thursday, October 10, 2024. Anticipated weather conditions are set to heighten concentrations of ozone pollution in the region tomorrow. This marks the tenth alert of its kind this year.
Health Precautions During High Pollution Days
On days designated as Ozone Action Days, those particularly susceptible to air quality issues include young children, senior citizens, and individuals facing respiratory ailments such as asthma, emphysema, or bronchitis. It is advisable for these groups to minimize outdoor activities and seek refuge indoors when possible. For individuals with asthma or breathing difficulties, remaining inside is highly recommended.
Suggested Actions to Enhance Air Quality
To foster cleaner air in our community and support energy conservation efforts, residents and businesses are urged to engage in the following eco-friendly practices:
During an Ozone Action Day, residents should take precautions to minimize exposure to ozone pollution. Here are some helpful tips:
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Attention Residents: Ozone Action Day is Here – Stay Informed for October 10, 2024!
What is an Ozone Action Day?
An Ozone Action Day is declared when the concentration of ground-level ozone is predicted to reach unhealthy levels. This happens primarily during warmer months when sunshine and stagnant air conditions contribute to the formation of ozone pollution. Residents are encouraged to limit outdoor activities to protect their health, particularly vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Understanding Ozone and Its Impacts
Ground-level ozone is not emitted directly into the air. Instead, it is created by chemical reactions between volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the presence of sunlight. This can lead to a variety of health issues and environmental impacts, including:
- Respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis
- Decreased lung function
- Increased hospital admissions and emergency room visits
- Damage to crops and other vegetation
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- Delay Refueling: Make it a point to refuel vehicles after sunset at or after 6 p.m.
- Dine Inside: Encourage visiting restaurants’ interiors instead of utilizing drive-thru services.
- Turn Off Engines: Avoid leaving vehicles idling by shutting them off when stationary.
- Adjust Thermostat Settings: Raise thermostats by two to three degrees from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m., setting them even higher during absences from home; ideally around a comfortable yet energy-efficient temperature of 78 degrees.
- Utilize Shared Transportation: Consider carpooling or employing public transit options whenever feasible.
- Consolidate Trips: Plan errands strategically to reduce the total number of trips taken.
Community Commitment
The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (Metro Health) urges all residents to contribute positively towards improving local air quality while conserving energy resources. For further insights about ground-level ozone effects and tips for maintaining clean air standards within the community, individuals are encouraged to visit Metro Health’s official website.
