Ozone Air Quality Alert Issued For Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley
PHILADELPHIA (CBS/AP) — The Department of Environmental Protection has issued an ozone air quality alert for much of Pennsylvania.
The DEP says the code orange alert is in effect Thursday for the Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley, Liberty-Clairton, and Susquehanna Valley areas. Under the system green represents good air quality, yellow is moderate, orange represents unhealthy pollution levels for sensitive people, and red warns of unhealthy pollution levels for everyone.
Ground-level ozone, a key component of smog, forms during warm weather when pollution from vehicles, industry, households and power plants heats up, making it hard for some people to breathe.
DEP says the elderly and those with respiratory problems such as asthma are especially vulnerable to air pollution and should limit outdoor activities.
In Philadelphia, citizens in need of help or a place to cool off during the heat wave, should call the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging Heat line at 215-765-9040.
Additional Heat Safety Tips From Philadelphia Fire Dept:
Stay Safe From the Heat by Following These Tips:
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Drink water throughout the day.
• Avoid caffeinated drinks like soda, tea or alcohol (they can dehydrate you).
Stay Cool Outside:
• Avoid being outside during the hottest times of the day (10 am - 2 pm).
• Try to rest in the shade and wear sunscreen, light clothing, hats and sunglasses to keep cool.
Stay Cool Inside:
• Use a fan with the windows open or an air conditioner.
• Visit places like libraries, shopping centers, movie theaters and senior centers that have working air conditioning units.
Watch Out for Others.
• Check on your neighbors, friends and family members to ensure their safety from the heat.
• Never leave seniors, children or pets alone in a car.
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