What can I do when an air quality alert is issued?
In Minnesota, the two main sources of air pollutants are ozone (smog), formed through a chemical reaction between hot sunshine and chemicals from vehicles, power plants and industry; and fine particles, which are one-fortieth the width of the human hair and come from similar sources.
When an Air Quality Index alert is issued for a level of 101 - 150, it usually means the air is unhealthy for older adults, people with heart and lung conditions (including asthma), and even healthy athletes and children, who breathe deeply during exercise.
When an Air Quality Index alert is issued for a level greater than 150, it means that everyone is at risk. This level is very rare in Minnesota. To subscribe for the AQI alert at no charge, visit http://aqi.pca.state.mn.us/hourly/. On air media will also broadcast alerts when issued by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The MPCA recommends that people take it easy, modify the intensity of exercise - play shorter games, rotate players more frequently, walk instead of run, postpone heavy workouts, etc, during an alert period.
When an Air Pollution Health Alert is issued, it is recommended that residents follow the necessary steps to reduce new emissions of air pollutants.
1. Limit driving - postpone errands and share a ride to and from work.
2. Refuel your car after 7 p.m. when there is less evaporation into the air.
3. Postpone using gasoline-powered yard and other equipment.
4. Postpone chores that use oil-based paints, solvents or varnishes.
5. Postpone indoor and outdoor recreational fires.
6. Turn off as many electrical items as possible to reduce demand on power plants.
July 10, 2003