Air Pollution Advisory Information

RAPCA issues Air Pollution Advisories (APA) anytime air pollution levels are expected to rise to unhealthy levels. APA's are based on two pollutants: fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone.

Fine Particulate Matter - PM2.5

PM2.5 consists of the solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Individually, these particles/droplets are invisible to the naked eye, but collectively, they can appear as clouds or a fog-like haze. This tiny matter, less than 2.5 microns in diameter, can get deep into people's lungs. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children are considered at greater risk from particles than other people, especially when they are physically active. Exercise and physical activity cause people to breathe faster and more deeply—and to take more particles into their lungs.

Fine particulate matter comes from many different sources including emissions from diesel and gasoline-powered engines, factories, power plants and outdoor burning. When inhaled, particle pollution can damage lung tissue, aggravate asthma, bronchitis and heart diseases.

Ozone

Ground-level ozone is not emitted directly into the air, but forms when emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) mixed together in the presence of heat and sunlight. Ozone can harm people's lungs, and EPA is particularly concerned about individuals with asthma or other lung diseases, as well as those who spend a lot of time outside, such as children. Ozone exposure can aggravate asthma, resulting in increased medication use and emergency room visits, and it can increase susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Major sources of ozone by-products (NOx and VOC) come from power plants, motor vehicle exhaust, industrial facilities, gasoline vapors and chemical solvents.

Actions You Can Take to Reduce Pollution and Protect Your Health

• Reduce Driving - Contact RideShare at (937) 223-SAVE or 1-800-743-SAVE for a free list of commuters who want to carpool.
• Ride the Bus.
• Avoid engine idling.
• Fill up your vehicle after 6pm.
• If you're using a gas powered mower, cut your grass after 6pm.
• Keep your car tuned up - saves gas and creates less air pollution.
• Eliminate outdoor burning - Don't burn leaves or trash outdoors. Mulch or compost yard waste.
• Reduce or avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

If you interested in receiving daily air pollution forecasts and APA alerts via email, sign up for EnviroFlash.