(Blackwood, NJ) — On Monday, July 8, Camden County will be under a Code Orange Ozone Action Day Alert. This alert means that the air is unhealthy to breathe, and sensitive members of the public – including those with heart or lung disease such as asthma, the elderly and young people – may experience health effects. Additionally, on Tuesday, July 9, there will be a slightly more moderate Code Yellow due to Ozone.
“On Monday, we recommend for everyone to try to minimize the time they are spending outside or using transportation to limit exposure to the elements,” said Dr. Paschal Nwako, Camden County’s Health Officer. “Residents should also exercise caution and monitor any respiratory symptoms while we are experiencing the increases in ozone levels.”
The effects of Ozone are due to the way pollutants like cars, refineries, and industrial boilers react to exposure to sunlight, and the harmful chemicals that emit from those pollutants. Unhealthy ozone levels typically happen on hot sunny days in urban environments, and can travel long distances by wind, affecting nearby rural areas as well.
Residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones during the Code Orange and Code Yellow Action Days. The following is recommended:
- Adjust plans for the day.
- Avoid long periods of activity outdoors.
- Stay away from high-traffic areas.
- Do not exercise near high-traffic areas.
- Limit physical activity outdoors, especially for sensitive groups like people with lung diseases or children.
The Health Department and the Office of Emergency Management will continue to monitor the air quality and provide updates as they become available.