PHX Reporter

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has issued an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County, effective from Friday, June 28 through Sunday, June 30, 2024. The advisory anticipates that ozone levels will exceed the federal health standard.

Ground-level ozone forms when emissions from vehicles, gasoline and diesel equipment, industrial and chemical processes, and other everyday activities react to sunlight. These reactions are more common during spring and summer months due to increased sunlight.

While some individuals are more sensitive than others, all residents can be affected by ground-level ozone pollution. This type of pollution is harmful to lungs and can trigger asthma. Children face the highest risk because their lungs are still developing; they are also more likely to be active outdoors and have a higher incidence of asthma compared to adults. Additionally, adults with asthma or other lung diseases and older adults are particularly sensitive to ozone.

During the HPA period, ADEQ advises the public to limit outdoor activity, especially children and those with respiratory issues.

The ADEQ and Maricopa County Air Quality Department (MCAQD) recommend several measures for residents and businesses to reduce ozone pollution:

- Promote remote work to reduce traffic.

- Carpool, van pool, or use public transportation.

- Avoid waiting in long drive-thru lines; park your car instead.

- Use bicycles 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 and finishes.

- Delay painting projects until advisories have passed.

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

Residents can visit Maricopa.gov/AQ for additional tips on reducing air pollution.

The advisory includes specific restrictions:

- Prohibition on wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar fires in Maricopa County.

- Government employees and contractors are prohibited from operating leaf blowers; residents are also encouraged not to use them during HPAs.

- Off-road vehicle use should be avoided.