Ozone Action Days, often marked as Code Orange, indicate unhealthy air quality levels, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. These days arise due to high concentrations of harmful ground-level ozone, which can cause various health problems.

Here’s what you need to know about these days, their causes, how to protect yourself and help prevent them.

What causes Ozone Action Days?

Ozone Action Days occur when the concentration of ground-level ozone reaches unhealthy levels. Ground-level ozone is not directly emitted into the air but is formed through a chemical reaction between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in sunlight. Significant sources include vehicle emissions, industrial facilities, gasoline vapors from refueling stations and storage tanks and chemical solvents used in paints, coatings and other products. High temperatures, dry air and sunlight accelerate these chemical reactions, making these days more common in summer.

How to protect yourself

Here are steps to protect yourself on a Code Orange day:

  • Limit Outdoor Activities: When ozone levels are highest, reduce or avoid strenuous activities outside, especially during peak sunlight hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Stay Indoors: Stay inside as much as possible, especially if you have asthma or other respiratory conditions.
  • Monitor Symptoms: Be vigilant for symptoms like coughing, throat irritation or difficulty breathing. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
  • Stay Informed: Keep track of air quality forecasts and alerts through local news or websites.
Credit: Benjamin Hardy

How to prevent Ozone Action Days

While individual actions alone can’t eliminate Ozone Action Days, collectively, we can reduce the pollutants that contribute to them. Here’s how you can help:

  • Use public or active transportation: Reduce vehicle emissions by using public transportation, carpooling, biking or walking when possible.
  • Limit vehicle idling: Turn off your engine when parked to decrease emissions.
  • Maintain your vehicle: Regularly service your car to ensure it runs efficiently and emits fewer pollutants.
  • Reduce energy consumption: Use energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights and electronics when not in use to reduce the demand on power grids.
  • Avoid using gas-powered equipment: Use electric or manual lawn equipment instead of gas-powered models.
  • Refuel in the evening: Refuel your car after the sun goes down to minimize gasoline vapors during the day when sunlight can trigger ozone formation.

Taking these precautions and making conscious choices can protect our health and contribute to cleaner air. Remember, every action counts when it comes to improving air quality and safeguarding our environment.