In fact, metro

Atlanta has recorded exceedences of these standards each year since ground-level

ozone monitoring began in 1980. In 2001, the region experienced 20 days

when ozone levels were considered unhealthy for some or all of the population.

In 1999, that number was 46.

Ground-level

ozone, the primary component of smog, is created from a recipe of nitrogen

oxides and volatile organic compounds, cooked by sunlight and high temperatures.

When ozone combines with particulate matter, like aerosols, dust and soot;

and other pollutants, smog is formed.

Ozone levels

can vary significantly over the course of the day, with the highest concentrations

occurring between 3 and 7 p.m. Because of this, The Clean Air Campaign's

health experts recommend that active people exercise in the mornings,

at mid-day or at night on days when the ozone levels are expected to be

high. Because reactions to ozone can vary from person to person, health

officials also recommend that people pay close attention to their own

reactions to outdoor exposure and activity, stop exercising if symptoms

such as chest tightening or difficulty breathing develop.

The Air Quality

Index (AQI), a color-coded guide created by the U.S. EPA, can help you

determine on which days exposure may impact you and your family. The forecasted

AQI is posted at cleanaircampaign.com each day during smog season. While

at the site, you can also sign up to receive emailed Smog Alerts sent

out when the next day's AQI is projected to be in ranges unhealthy for

some or all populations.

The good news

is that everyone can help reduce air pollution by reducing the number

of miles they drive. Mobile sources like cars and trucks contribute to

smog formation, so using alternative commuting options like carpooling,

transit and teleworking do make a difference. Not only do these changes

result in less smog pollution, they also enhance quality of life by offering

benefits like reduced commuting costs, time saved from avoiding gridlock

and increased productivity. For example, teleworking just one day each

week can save the average metro Atlanta commuter 67 hours each year that's

time that can be better spent with families or even getting more work

done.

As we move

into the 2002 smog season, keep these alternatives in mind. Altering your

driving behavior can make a difference in the quality of our air and the

quality of our lives.

Anyone interested

in learning more about smog season and how Th e

Clean Air Campaign can help can visit www.cleanaircampaign.com

or call 1-877-CLEANAIR.