New York state issues updated air quality advisory due to concerns about pollution

Due to concerns about ozone circulation in the atmosphere, the state's Department of Environmental Conservation issued an updated air quality health advisory that now includes Long Island in addition to New York City and Rockland and Westchester counties.

In the areas receiving the advisory, it is expected to exceed an air quality index value of 100, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Ground-level ozone — a surface pollutant that should not be confused with the ozone in the protective layer in the upper atmosphere — can be caused by summer heat, automobile exhaust, and out-of-state emission sources.

The fine particulate matter being produced directly from Canadian wildfire smoke is also enhancing the production of ozone, but it is not its primary source.

Ground-level ozone is a major component of photochemical smog, which causes a smoky or hazy sky. Young children, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work, and those with respiratory diseases, such as asthma, are especially advised to limit strenuous physical activity outdoors from the afternoon to early evening — when ozone levels are predicted to be the highest.

New Yorkers are urged to take the following steps to help save energy and reduce pollution:

Use mass transit.

Conserve fuel and reduce exhaust by combining needed motor vehicle trips.

Turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas.

Use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is needed, set it to 78 degrees.

Close blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and save cooled air.

Limit the use of household appliances. If necessary, run appliances at off-peak hours, after 7 p.m.

Set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures.

Buy appliances energy efficient lighting with the Energy Star label.

Reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and minimize indoor smoking.