Maine's Poor Air Quality Continues

June 26, 2007 -- (AUGUSTA)-- Ground-level ozone concentrations are expected to reach unhealthy levels in the southern half of Maine on Wednesday according to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. The area of the state subject to high levels of ozone is expected to expand on Wednesday.

The forecast calls for unhealthy levels of ozone for the entire coast and interior areas of Maine. Moderate levels of ozone are expected in the remainder of the state. Additionally, much of the state also has the potential for unhealthy levels of particle pollution. Looking ahead the timing of the cold front on Thursday may mean that poor air quality could continue to be an issue that day as well.

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Individuals suffering from a respiratory disease, such as asthma, children, and healthy active adults can experience reduced lung function and irritation. When this happens individuals may notice a shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation, and/or experience an uncomfortable sensation in their chest. Additionally those with cardiac disease should also reduce their exposure to air pollution.

Some actions you can take to protect your health include:

• Avoid strenuous activity, such as jogging, mid-day

• Close windows and circulate indoor air with a fan or air conditioner

• Avoid using aerosol products such as cleaners, paints, and other lung irritants

• Give yourself a break! Take it easy!

Ground level ozone is formed by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and sunlight. Man-made sources of NOx and VOCs include automobiles, trucks and buses, large combustion and industry sources such as utilities, consumer products such as paints and cleaners, and gas powered lawn and garden equipment.

Particle pollution is both emitted directly from the sources listed above and also forms due to chemical reactions in the atmosphere.

Take action to help reduce emissions that contribute to the formation of ozone: Conserve electricity, Choose a cleaner commute, carpool or use public transportation, Defer the use of gas powered lawn and garden equipment until after dusk, Limit idling, Refuel cars and trucks after dusk, Combine errands, reduce trips, Use environmentally friendly safe paints and cleaning products

Source: Maine Department of Environmental Protection