When the ozone hits dangerously high levels, it creates an unsafe environment for many people, especially those with existing health conditions.

Ozone warnings and alerts are broadcast so those at risk can take necessary precautions to reduce health risks and impacts.

If you are at a high or moderate risk for health problems worsened by ozone exposure, read on for ways to stay safe while the threat runs high.

Ozone Defined

There are both “good” and “bad” types of ozone.

Stratospheric “Good” Ozone

The good variety is known as stratospheric ozone. This ozone layer is located high up in the earth’s atmosphere, where it acts as a protective shield from the sun’s damaging UV rays.

This good ozone not only protects humans, but also protects the earth’s vegetation and fundamental eco-system from the effects of UV damage.

Tropospheric “Bad” Ozone

The bad kind of ozone, tropospheric or ground level ozone, is what causes serious health problems for those who cannot tolerate breathing in ozone pollutants.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bad ozone forms when a combination of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) experience a chemical reaction in the presence of sunlight.

Oxides of nitrogen and volatile organic compounds are produced primarily by everyday pollution. Sources of pollution come from car emissions, smoke, output from chemical or power plants, and other sources.

Health Risks Caused by Ozone Exposure

Exposure to ozone may result in a lot of serious health problems such as:

  • Headaches
  • Dry throat
  • Cough
  • Fluid in the lungs
  • Heavy/tight feeling in the chest
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Wheezing
  • Severe asthma attacks
  • Fatigue

Anyone who suffers with a weakened immune system, asthma, lung or cardiovascular disease, COPD, or the elderly population should avoid high ozone levels at all costs.

Too much exposure to ozone particles can lead to permanent health problems such as asthma. The more exposure to ozone, the more serious the symptoms may become.

Ozone Exposure Precautions

In order to avoid exposure to dangerous ozone particles, take the following precautions on high-risk days:

  • Skip strenuous activities that put stress on the heart and lungs – chill out for the day.
  • Stay indoors, preferably in an environment with clean, filtered air.
  • Keep doors and windows closed.
  • Keep an eye on the forecast as the hotter the weather outside, the greater the odds of unsafe ozone levels.
  • Avoiding burning candles, incense, or using gas stoves, which all contribute to indoor air pollution.
  • Avoid breathing in dust by using a wet cloth or mop for cleaning.
  • Vacuum carpets with only a HEPA filter.

Conclusion

Even if you’re not in a high-risk health category, it simply isn’t safe to spend time outdoors breathing in dangerously high levels of ground level ozone.

For ways to improve air quality inside your Santa Rosa area home, contact the HVAC professionals at Dale HCS.