On June 4, Camden County will experience a Code Orange Ozone Action Day Alert. This indicates that the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive individuals, including those with heart or lung conditions like asthma, as well as the elderly and young people.
Dr. Paschal Nwako, Camden County’s Health Officer, advises, “Our recommendation is for the general public to try to minimize the time they are spending outside to limit exposure to the elements.” He also urges residents to be vigilant about any respiratory symptoms due to increased ozone levels.
Ozone pollution results from pollutants emitted by vehicles, refineries, and industrial boilers reacting with sunlight. These harmful chemicals often lead to unhealthy ozone levels on hot sunny days in urban areas and can spread to nearby rural regions via wind.
To safeguard health during this alert, residents are advised to adjust their daily plans by avoiding prolonged outdoor activities and staying away from high-traffic zones. It is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as individuals with lung diseases or children not to exercise near busy roads.
The Health Department along with the Office of Emergency Management will keep monitoring air quality and will provide updates when necessary.
