Politics & Government

Air Quality Alert Posted

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management issued an ozone alert for July 6.

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Rhode Island health officials issued an ozone alert for July 6, as high temperatures and warm, humid winds from the west and southwest are forecast to create unhealthy air quality.

Ozone levels are forecast to be highest in the southern half of the state later this afternoon into the evening, the Department of Environmental Management stated in a release posted July 5 on its website. The agency recommended limiting outdoor activities and staying in an air-conditioned environment, if possible.

In Johnston, Marian J. Mohr Library and the are the town's public air-conditioned spaces, with the library open until 8 p.m. Call (401) 944-3343 to check the senior center's schedule.

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The DEM also listed these suggestions to limit car and other emissions that cause ozone:

  1. Limit driving. Avoid unnecessary car trips. Carpool, walk or ride the bus or a bicycle whenever possible.

  • Minimize starts and avoid unnecessary acceleration. Vehicle emissions are highest during starting and acceleration.

  • Reduce idling. Avoid congested traffic and lines at drive-through windows.

  • Drive your lowest emission vehicle. Use the most fuel-efficient, usually the newest, car you have whenever possible.

  • Refuel at stations which have vapor recovery. Fill your tank at a station which is equipped with a Stage II vapor recovery system. Don't top off.

  • Maintain your vehicle. Get a tune-up at the beginning of each summer.

  • Minimize lawn mower emissions. Tune-up your lawn mower and use electric or handpowered equipment if possible.

  • Limit use of solvent-based household products. Use water-based or low solvent paints, varnishes, cleaners, and personal care products.

  • Limit barbecue emissions. Use an electric starter instead of lighter fluid to start charcoal fires, or use an electric, natural gas, or propane grill.

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    Correction: This article was corrected after publication to state that the alert covered the southern half of Rhode Island.

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