Retro is “in” for back to school, including those bright Lisa Frank folders and oversized sweatshirts right out of the 1980s. Styles may change, but one thing that never goes out of style is clean air.
You may love the retro look, but don’t drive like it’s 1985. When you’re waiting in the car rider line, turn off your engine. Contrary to popular belief, restarting your car does not burn more fuel than leaving it idling. Your modern car has fuel injection, so restarting takes just a half teaspoon of gas. In fact, idling for just 10 seconds wastes more gas than restarting the engine.
Students walking in and out of the school are exposed to pollutants from gasoline powered engines on a daily basis. Reducing idling reduces their exposure, and creates a healthier environment for everyone in the school community.
Be mindful of the health and safety of students as they head back to class. As vintage favorite Woodsy Owl would say, “Give a Hoot! Don’t Pollute!”
Have a productive and air-friendly school year.
Monday, August 5, is an Air Quality Alert Day for ozone in Louisville/Southern Indiana. While the weekend outlook is for Moderate air quality, the long-range forecast is for elevated ozone on Monday. Forecasters believe ozone will be in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (orange) range. Sensitive groups include seniors, children, and people with breathing ailments like asthma and COPD. The general public is not likely to be affected.