KINGSTON, ONT./ Aug. 30, 2010 – The Ontario Ministry of Environment has issued a smog advisory for the region of the City of Kingston warning of a high probability of poor quality air today and will remain in effect until further notice.
Residents are advised that open-air burning is never permitted in Kingston when smog advisories are in effect.
To keep up on the status of the area’s air quality go to the Air Quality Ontario website at: www.airqualityontario.com
Smog is composed of numerous contaminants such as ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter and is harmful to human health. You may experience eye irritation. Avoid heavy outdoor exercise which may cause respiratory symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. People with heart or lung disease, including asthma, should take extra care and may experience a worsening of their condition.
You can protect your health and spare the air by adopting the following Ministry of the Environment tips:
Travel tips – all year round:
* leave your car at home – walk, cycle, carpool or take public transit
* tele-conference instead of driving to meetings
* limit car trips by doing all your errands at once, and do
not let your engine idle
* keep your car well tuned, check your tire pressure and
drive at moderate speeds
Health tips:
* avoid exposure to vehicle exhaust fumes
* consult your doctor for specific health advice
* wear light clothing at work while air conditioning is reduced
* avoid strenuous exercise in the heat of the day
Electricity saving tips:
* set your air conditioner a few degrees higher (health permitting)
* turn off lights you are not using them
Other pollution reduction tips:
* leave lawn mowing for another day
* restrict the use of gasoline-powered equipment
* delay using oil-based paints, solvents and cleaners
Consult your doctor for specific medical advice on how to cope with poor air quality.
