Arizona Air Pollution Health Watch Extended Through Wednesday, April 9

April 8 -- The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has extended an Air Pollution Health Watch for the greater Phoenix metropolitan area through Wednesday, April 9.

Particulate levels are forecasted to approach unhealthful levels. People who are sensitive to the effects of air pollution, including people with respiratory illness, the elderly and young children are advised to limit outdoor exertion while the Health Watch is in effect.

Air pollution over Page, Arizona: Photo by Sarah (CC)

How can you help?

* Drive less, particularly on pollution advisory days. Reduce the number of trips you take in your car.
* Drive slowly on unpaved roads (best under 15 miles per hour).
* Don’t use leaf blowers and other equipment that raise a lot of dust. Use a rake or a broom instead.
* Avoid using gas-powered lawn and garden equipment.
* Maintain your landscape. Cover loose dirt with vegetation or gravel.
* Reduce fireplace and wood stove use, and don’t use your wood-burning fireplace or stove on no-burn days.
* Consider using gas instead of wood. If you use a wood-burning stove or a fireplace insert, make sure it meets EPA design specifications and burn only dry, seasoned wood.
* Don’t burn leaves, trash or other materials.
* Report serious offenders to the Maricopa County Air Quality Department at (602) 372-2703.

Transportation Options

Ridesharing and use of alternative modes of transportation can help improve air quality and reduce traffic congestion. Commuters can find a carpool or vanpool partner by logging on to www.sharetheride.com. To find out more about bus schedules, bicycling, walking, telecommuting, or compressed work weeks, log on to www.ValleyMetro.org or call (602) 262-7433 (RIDE).

Additional information is available from the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, including a particulate matter fact sheet, the health effects of air pollution, how air pollution affects the view and updated 2007 ozone season statistics.

Sources: Maricopa County Air Quality Department, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality

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