Warning from the EVV EPA

URGENT – PRESS RELEASE

PARTICULATE ALERT

PLEASE POST

Date: May 29, 2007 From: Dona Bergman

Director, Evansville EPA

Dr. Joanne Alexandrovich

Vanderburgh Co. Health Dept. Ozone Office

The Evansville Environmental Protection Agency and the Vanderburgh County Health Department Ozone Office have issued a Particulate Alert for Tuesday, May 29 and Wednesday, May 30, 2007. It is possible that the level of Particulate Matter 2.5 micrometers in diameter (PM_2.5) may reach a 24 hour average of 35 micrograms per cubic meter (35µg/m³).

PM_2.5 gets deep in the lungs where it can’t easily expelled and can lead to respiratory problems, heart disease and heart attacks. Children, the elderly and anyone with heart or lung problems should be especially careful while this Particulate Alert is in effect. To minimize any health effects:

· Try to postpone physically strenuous activities until air quality improves.

· Avoid prolonged exertion – take rest breaks.

· Use an indoor air filter if you have one.

· If you experience shortness of breath, chest pains or have difficulty breathing - call your health care provider.

PM_2.5 can be high any time of the year, any time of the day and is often higher inside buildings than it is outdoors. Some particulate matter is emitted directly, such as from diesel truck exhaust. It can also be created by chemical reactions between other pollutants in the atmosphere.

To help reduce particulate levels:

· CONSERVE ENERGY OF ALL TYPES: Gasoline, diesel, electricity and natural gas.

· Limit driving; postpone filling up your vehicle if possible.

· Avoid unnecessary vehicle idling.

· Avoid using drive-thru windows, especially if there is a long line.

· Postpone mowing your grass or using gas-powered lawn equipment.

· Postpone painting and limit solvent use.

Remember NO BURNING is allowed during Particulate Alerts. Although using gas and charcoal grills is permitted, we ask that you postpone grilling until air quality improves.

Real-time pollution levels, forecasts and more information can be found at: www.airnow.gov