What is ozone pollution?

Even though you can’t always see it, ozone pollution can still make the air in Greater Kansas City unhealthy to breathe. There are two types of ozone. The ozone layer high above the earth protects us from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. The second type of ozone — ground-level ozone — can be harmful to your health. Ground-level ozone forms when emissions from sources including cars or lawn and garden equipment react in heat and sunlight.

What are the health risks?

Ozone pollution can cause wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing even in healthy adults. Seniors, children, and people with asthma or COPD may be especially sensitive to ozone pollution.

How can you keep your kids healthy this summer?

• Follow the SkyCast at AirQKC.org for the daily ozone pollution forecast.
• When elevated pollution levels are predicted, limit the time children spend outdoors.
• Tell your child’s caregivers about the SkyCast and the health risks of air pollution.
• Help keep our air clean. Walk, bike, carpool or ride the bus to reduce emissions.

What are some other steps to reduce ozone pollution?

• Carpooling is a great way to save money, keep the air clean and keep miles off your car. Talk to friends or coworkers and visit RideShareKC.org to find a carpool partner.
• Postpone refueling your vehicle. Refueling vehicles can release harmful fumes into the air. If you must fill up, do so after 7 p.m. and stop when the pump clicks. Over-filling the tank releases more harmful gases into the air and can damage your car.
• Consider mowing after 7 p.m. Lawn and garden equipment — including mowers — lack efficient emissions controls resulting in more pollution per hour of use than most cars. Consider mowing after 7 p.m. so emissions can dissipate overnight.