Garden State Times

On Monday, July 8, Camden County will be under a Code Orange Ozone Action Day Alert. This alert indicates that the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, including individuals with heart or lung disease such as asthma, the elderly, and young people. On Tuesday, July 9, the alert will shift to a slightly more moderate Code Yellow due to ozone levels.

"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 stem from pollutants like cars, refineries, and industrial boilers reacting to sunlight exposure and emitting harmful chemicals. Unhealthy ozone levels typically occur on hot sunny days in urban environments but can travel long distances by wind, affecting nearby rural areas as well.

Residents are encouraged to take precautions during the Code Orange and Code Yellow Action Days:

- 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 monitoring air quality and provide updates as they become available.