PHX Reporter

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County for Monday, June 10. This advisory is due to expected ozone levels surpassing the federal health standard.

Ground-level ozone forms when emissions from vehicles, gasoline and diesel equipment, industrial processes, and other everyday activities react with sunlight. Ozone pollution is more prevalent during spring and summer months due to increased sunlight.

All county residents can be affected by ground-level ozone pollution, which can harm lungs and trigger asthma. Children are at the greatest risk because their lungs are still developing, they are more likely to be active outdoors, and they have higher rates of asthma compared to adults. Adults with respiratory conditions and older adults are also sensitive to ozone. The public is advised to limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory issues.

ADEQ and the Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) recommend several measures to reduce ozone pollution:

- Promote remote work to reduce traffic.

- Carpool, vanpool, or use public transportation when possible.

- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines; park your car and go inside.

- Use a bike or walk for commuting.

- Sweep instead of using leaf blowers.

- Refuel vehicles after dark or during cooler evening hours.

- Use low-VOC or water-based paints, stains, finishes, and paint strippers.

- Delay painting projects until high pollution advisories or health watches have passed.

- Ensure containers of household cleaners and chemicals are sealed properly.

For more information on reducing air pollution, visit CleanAirMakeMore.com.

The High Pollution Advisory includes specific restrictions:

- Prohibition on wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar fires within Maricopa County. This applies even to those with burn permits for open burning.

- Government employees and contractors are prohibited from operating leaf blowers; residents are encouraged to avoid leaf blowing during HPAs.

- Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.