Blog

Fall is a time for transition. Cooler temperatures mean it’s time to bring out the jackets and hoodies. It also means it’s the end of what is considered Ozone Season in Kentuckiana.

The change of seasons reduces several contributors to ozone, including ultraviolet light and high temperatures. That doesn’t mean the end of air pollution forecasts, however. Forecasts will focus on particle pollution throughout the fall and winter until we enter ozone season again in the spring.

Just because we’re at the end of ozone season, doesn’t mean we should stop doing our part for cleaner air. Good air quality habits make a difference all year round. In fact, being Idle Free, combining errands and driving less make a difference here in your community, no matter what the weather.

A lot has changed in the last six months—how we work, how we go to school, and how we take care of daily tasks. Sometimes it can be overwhelming.

Amongst all the changes, staying healthy still needs to be a priority, for you and your loved ones.Small changes can help bring some calm in the chaos.

Take mental breaks. A walk outdoors, a few minutes of stretches, a steaming mug of tea or your favorite tunes on your playlist can all give you a little lift when you need it.

Check the Air Quality Index, especially if you or a loved one has respiratory illness. Ozone season is winding down, but our area can still have elevated ozone in September. Plan your time outdoors to reduce your exposure.

Fall is a great time for planting. Cooler temperatures give trees and shrubs a chance to get well established and get a head start for next spring. These plants will help the air while beautifying your yard. No yard? Try a new houseplant, especially the popular succulents which need little care, but brighten up your desk. Or keep a pot of herbs near the kitchen window for adding color and flavor to your recipes.

Be Idle Free. If you’re back in the car rider line for school, turning off your engine while you are waiting is good for the air and your wallet. Picking up your takeout food or your curbside order of groceries? Being Idle Free protects your health and the health of employees bringing your order.

Even in the midst of many changes, our need for clean air continues. In many ways, protecting our health has become more important than ever. Small changes that clean the air are a positive step toward a healthier you.

There is an Air Quality Alert for Saturday (8/8/2020) in Louisville and Southern Indiana. Ozone is forecast to be Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (seniors, children, and people with breathing ailments like asthma and COPD). The general public is not likely to be affected.

There is an Air Quality Alert for Friday (7/17/2020) in Louisville and Southern Indiana. Ozone is forecast to be Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (seniors, children, and people with breathing ailments like asthma and COPD). The general public is not likely to be affected.

The Air Quality Alert for Tuesday (7/14/2020) is extended to Wednesday (7/15/2020) in Louisville and Southern Indiana. Ozone is forecast to be Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (seniors, children, and people with breathing ailments like asthma and COPD). The general public is not likely to be affected.