For Immediate Release
Sept. 1, 1998

Contact: Marcia Danab, Oregon DEQ, 229-6488
Bob Elliot, SW Washington Air Pollution Control Authority, 360-574-3058, ext. 12

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and Southwest Washington Air Pollution Control Authority have issued a Clean Air Action Day smog advisory for Wednesday, Sept. 2. A Clean Air Action Day is also in effect for today.

The weather forecast for continuing temperatures above 90 degrees with light winds, ideal conditions for smog levels to rise to create unhealthy air quality. Pollution levels have been increasing because there have been several very hot days in a row.

DEQ and SWAPCA ask local residents to help lower pollution levels by driving less. If you postpone even one car trip until the weather cools down, you will help reduce air pollution.

You can also help out by choosing an alternative form of transportation, such as mass transit, carpooling, or biking.

On Wednesday, Sept. 2, Clean Air Action Days:

* All C-Tran buses will be free.

At unhealthy levels, smog is harmful to everybody's lungs. Smog can be particularly harmful to children, older people, people with chronic lung problems like asthma, and those who exercise vigorously outdoors.

In addition to cars, exhaust from gas-powered lawn and garden equipment can contribute significantly to air pollution. Delay using gas powered equipment until the weather drops below 90 degrees to help reduce air pollution.

Call the Air Pollution Index, (503) 229-6397, for updated pollution levels.

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