The Illinois State Environmental Protection Agency said Sunday had been declared a day of action against air pollution in several counties in the Chicago area, citing increased ozone levels.
In Illinois, an air pollution action day is declared when air quality is expected to reach or exceed the Orange or Unhealthy/Sensitive Groups category for two or more consecutive days. Similarly, an air quality warning has been set for McHenry, Lake, Kane, DuPage, Kendall, Grundy, Cook and Will counties from midnight Saturday to midnight Sunday.
People with lung diseases and other risk factors such as asthma, children and adolescents, older adults and people who regularly spend six or more hours outdoors a day should reduce their time outdoors during the alert level, according to the authorities.
Anyone who fears they may be affected should look out for the following symptoms: wheezing, coughing, rapid
Heart palpitations, fatigue, chest pain, and shortness of breath. If symptoms worsen, call your doctor or 911.
More humidity and heat are expected in the Chicago area starting Saturday, with heat index readings potentially reaching 43 degrees on Monday and Tuesday.
According to the EPA, people are encouraged to take the following steps, especially on action days, to reduce their contribution to air pollution.
- Limit driving – combine errands, walking or biking when possible.
- Avoid idling while driving, running errands, and keeping your vehicle and other engines
correctly coordinated. - Save energy to reduce energy consumption.
- Use environmentally friendly household and cleaning products.
- Avoid using gasoline-powered equipment such as lawn mowers and leaf blowers.
- Notify colleagues, friends and family to help protect their health and encourage them to take appropriate action.
