PHX Reporter

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) is issuing an Ozone High Pollution Advisory (HPA) for Maricopa County for Friday, July 5 and Saturday, July 6, 2024. This advisory is due to expected ozone levels that may exceed the federal health standard for ozone.

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

"Although some people are more sensitive than others, all county residents can be affected by ground-level ozone pollution," stated ADEQ. "It is harmful to lungs and can trigger asthma." Children are at greater risk because their lungs are still developing, they are more active outdoors, and they have a higher likelihood of having asthma. Adults with respiratory conditions and older adults are also sensitive to ozone.

The public should limit outdoor activity while the HPA is in effect, especially children and adults with respiratory problems.

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

- Promote remote work to reduce traffic.

- Carpool or use public transportation.

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

- Ride a bike or walk to work.

- Sweep instead of using a leaf blower.

- 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 advisories or health watches have passed.

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

This advisory includes specific restrictions:

- Wood burning in residential fireplaces, chimeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar fires is prohibited in 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.

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BACKGROUND

High Pollution Advisory (HPA): Notifies the public that an air pollutant level is expected to exceed the federal health standard.

Ozone: Ground-level ozone forms through a chemical reaction involving sunlight, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and VOCs.

MEDIA CONTACT [English/Spanish]

Ari Halpert

602-501-1266 cell

602-506-6713 desk

ari.halpert@maricopa.gov

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About Maricopa County Air Quality Department

MCAQD’s mission is to improve air quality in Maricopa County so residents can live in a healthy environment. MCAQD follows air quality standards set by the federal Clean Air Act. For more information on air quality resources visit Maricopa.gov/AQ.

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