April 23 declared Ozone Action Day

The Clean Air Force of Central Texas has declared April 23 an Ozone Action Day. The area affected includes Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, Travis and Williamson Counties.

The declaration means that individuals with chronic lung disease, such as asthma and emphysema, as well as the elderly and young children, who are particularly sensitive to ozone should attempt to avoid exposure by minimizing exertion outdoors. 

You can reduce air pollution emissions by simply doing the following:

  • Limit Your Driving on Ozone Action Days. Take your lunch to work, combine errands, ride your bicycle, share a ride or use Capital Metro (click for bus routes).
  • Avoid Idling. Skip the drive-thru lane and park and go inside instead. For information on heavy duty vehicle idling restrictions, please see www.tceq.texas.gov.
  • Postpone Refueling Your Vehicle Until After 6 p.m. Also don’t top-off the tank to prevent the escape of emissions.
  • Postpone Mowing Your Lawn and Using Other Gas-Powered Equipment Until After 6 p.m.
  • Keep Your Vehicle Tuned Up. A well-maintained car operates more efficiently and cleanly.

You can get more information here.