Ulster & Dutchess Counties Under Ozone Air Alert Today

As it starts to warm up here in the Hudson Valley air alerts start to pick up.

According to a press release from the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Dutchess and Ulster counties will be under an air quality health advisory today, starting at 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. tonight.

The state Department of Environmental Conservation has issued the advisory because they are projecting that outdoor air will have an elevated level of ozone pollution.

Because of the advisory, they recommend that we limit strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of getting hurt. People, especially young children, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work and those who have respiratory disease (such as asthma) should consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity when ozone levels are the highest (generally afternoon to early evening). When outdoor levels of ozone are elevated, going indoors will usually reduce your exposure. If you experience any of these symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing you should consider consulting your doctor.

They are also encouraging us to do the following things to save energy and reduce pollution:

1. Use mass transit or carpool instead of driving.

2. Conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips.

3. Turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas.

4. Use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees, close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air.

5. Limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters.

6. Set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures.

7. Purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label

8. Reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking

For more information, call the state’s toll-free, air-quality hotline at 1 (800) 535-1345.