Ozone Watch
10 Tips to help control ozone formation:
- Limit daytime driving and combine errands. Drive "emission wise." Avoid prolonged idling and jackrabbit starts. Walk or ride a bicycle for short trips.
- Carpool and use public transportation when possible. Take your lunch to work.
- Refuel your vehicle during cooler evening hours (after 6 p.m.). Don't top off your tank and avoid spills.
- Defer mowing your grass until late evening or the next day.
- Avoid the use of gasoline-powered equipment like chain saws, garden equipment, outboard motors and off-road or recreational vehicles. If you must use them, wait until after 6 p.m.
- Postpone chores that use oil based paint, varnishes and solvents.
- If you must barbecue, use an electric starter or chimney instead of starter fluid.
- Maintain your vehicle to minimize pollutants emissions and maintain fuel efficiency.
- Make certain your gas cap seals tightly. If it is missing, buy a new one.
- Conserve energy in your home.
Additional information about current air quality in the Baton Rouge area is available online at the DEQ website http://www.ldeq.org
Recorded ozone forecast messages from DEQ are available at 225-219-0857. To obtain information on the highest air quality readings for the Greater Baton Rouge area please call 225-219-3543.
