Teresa Marks, Director
5301 Northshore Drive
North Little Rock, AR 72118-5317 
(501) 682-0744

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When an Ozone Action "Alert" is declared, a notice similar the one below will be faxed or emailed to news media and participating organizations (usually by 3:00 p.m. prior to an Ozone Action Day). To receive notification of Ozone Action Days, call Metroplan at (501) 372-3300.

ON OZONE ACTION DAYS AND DURING THE OZONE SEASON (May-September) -- public agencies, private business and the public in general should take voluntary actions to reduce ground-level ozone formation and minimize ozone related health risks.

TO HELP REDUCE OZONE FORMATION -- Limit automobile use by carpooling, walking or riding the bus. Avoid driving during congested “rush hour” traffic and at lunchtime. Postpone or combine errands. Replace face-to-face meetings with conference calls. If possible, telecommute and participate in flextime or compressed-work-weeks. Keep your car well tuned and avoid jackrabbit starts and excessive idling. Avoid use of oil-based paints and solvents. Refuel motor vehicles and mow lawns during the late afternoon or evening hours only.

THOSE MOST AT RISK TO OZONE EXPOSURE -- children, the elderly, and persons with breathing problems. High ozone concentrations may reduce visibility, aggravate pre-existing respiratory illness (e.g., asthma, bronchitis, common colds, emphysema, influenza and pneumonia), and even cause symptoms in normally healthy persons who engage in strenuous physical activity outdoors (e.g., athletes, construction workers, farmers and joggers). Symptoms of ozone exposure may include shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, headaches, nausea, and eye and throat irritation. These symptoms usually disappear within a few hours after going indoors. If symptoms persist or become severe, seek medical attention immediately.