March 1st marks the beginning of the Ozone Season, lasting until November 30. This period is characterized by poorer air quality in the region due to ozone pollution.
The highest levels of ozone typically occur between May and June and from August to October. However, "moderate" levels can be present as early as February and continue through November.
Ground Level Ozone acts as an irritant that negatively impacts human health by making breathing more difficult, increasing asthma attack frequency, and inflaming or damaging airways.
To help protect air quality, individuals are encouraged to limit driving, maintain their vehicles properly, use appropriately sized vehicles for trips (such as walking or biking instead of using a sedan or pick-up truck), utilize public transit instead of driving or ride-hailing services, conserve electricity and water, and refuel vehicles in the evening.
Protecting air quality becomes crucial when ozone levels are forecasted to reach unhealthy levels. These days are known as Ozone Action Days. On such days, people should take steps to reduce air pollution and limit exposure to ozone pollution.
Residents can sign up for Ozone Action Day alerts from Air Central Texas at aircentraltexas.org.
"Together," a spokesperson emphasized, "we can protect our air in Travis County."