Garden State Times

Camden County will be under a Code Orange Ozone Action Day Alert on Wednesday, July 17, 2024. This alert signifies 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 Thursday, July 18, a slightly more moderate Code Yellow due to ozone will be in effect.

“Our recommendation is for the general public to try to minimize the time they are spending outside to limit exposure to the elements,” said Dr. Paschal Nwako, Camden County’s Health Officer. “Residents are urged to monitor any symptoms of respiratory issues while we are experiencing the increases in ozone levels.”

Ozone effects arise from pollutants emitted by sources like cars, refineries, and industrial boilers reacting with sunlight. These pollutants can cause unhealthy ozone levels on hot sunny days in urban areas and can travel long distances by wind, impacting nearby rural regions as well.

Residents are advised 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.