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Warning over summer smog levels

Warm, sunny, weather forecast over Southern England over the next few days is likely to lead to the first summer smog episode of 2007.

 

Moderate ozone levels are forecast from Saturday for south-east England and the Midlands.  On Sunday high ozone levels are likely to extend to the rest of England and Wales. These levels are likely to persist until at least Monday.

 

Some people are more sensitive to ozone than others and may begin to notice an effect on their breathing.

 

People with asthma are not necessarily more sensitive but, if affected, can use their 'reliever' inhaler. The public are being urged to take sensible precautions:

·                                 Avoiding exercise outdoors in the afternoon can reduce exposure to ozone.

·                                 Avoiding making unnecessary short car journeys wherever possible can 

                                  reduce the formation of ozone.

 

Regular updates on levels of particulate matter (PM10), sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide are available on: TELETEXT (page 156), the Internet http://www.airquality.co.uk/ (Air Quality Information Archive) and the Department's freephone helpline (0800 556677), which also offers health advice to those who may be particularly sensitive to air pollution.

Web link           http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/2007/070427a.htm