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From Sue Stetler, SEMCOG Communications Director • e-mail • 313-961-4266

Ozone Action season begins; SEMCOG urges good habits every day

SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, announces the May 1 start of Ozone Action season in Southeast Michigan. This is the 14th year of the voluntary program that helps keep Southeast Michigan air clean.

Ground-level ozone is a result of hot, sunny days. Elevated levels can be a health hazard, particularly for the elderly, the young, and those suffering from respiratory ailments such as emphysema or asthma.

Air monitors in Southeast Michigan show that we're in compliance with the national ozone standard. Last year marked the third straight year in which we've had no ozone violations. We need to continue our good habits.

Beginning this year, all gasoline sold in Southeast Michigan from June 1 - September 15 will be lower vapor pressure. This fuel is less volatile than conventional gasoline and reduces evaporative emissions. It will help keep the air cleaner.

Southeast Michigan residents can also help keep the air cleaner by doing the following:

• Try not to refuel on Ozone Action days. On other days when you need to refuel, fill up in the evening when the weather is cooler, and don't "top off" the tank.
• Keep your vehicle well maintained. It will use less gas (and save you money!) and emit fewer emissions. Be sure your tires are properly inflated too.
• Reduce automobile use whenever possible. Plan to carpool, use public transit, bike, walk, or work at home.
• Choose the lawn chair over the lawn mower. Relax on Ozone Action days. On other days, plan to mow your lawn in the evening when the weather is cooler.

Ozone Action days are announced in area media and other outlets, such as electronic freeway message signs. Last summer, two Ozone Action days were called. The average number of Ozone Action days per season is 10. In 2004, just one Ozone Action day was called; the highest was 25 in 1999.

Additional information on Ozone Action days is available on SEMCOG's Web site at www.semcog.org, accessible via the Ozone Action logo on the home page. Residents wishing to be added to SEMCOG's Ozone Action notification list (via e-mail) can sign up at www.semcog.org.

Local Governments Advancing Southeast Michigan

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SEMCOG is a regional planning partnership of governmental units serving 4.9 million people in the seven-county region of Southeast Michigan striving to enhance the region's quality of life.

Southeast Michigan Council of Governments
535 Griswold Street, Suite 300 Detroit, MI 48226-3602
313-961-4266 - Fax 313-961-4869
www.semcog.org