Residents with breathing problems might find Friday's weather forecast problematic, with high ozone levels expected, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
An air quality health advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. through 11 p.m. on Friday.
Officials with the State Department of Environmental Conservation and Department of Health said the Air Quality Index is expected to exceed 100, prompting the alert.
Active children and adults, and people with lung disease, such as asthma, should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors, says the DEC.
The DEC also urges residents 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.
- Purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label.
- Reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking.
- 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.
