Department of Environmenal Protection Declares Code Orange Tuesday

HARRISBURG, PA —The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has declared a statewide Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for fine particulate matter July 18 in Pennsylvania.

Orange represents unhealthy pollution levels for sensitive groups of people, including young children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems, such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis.

All are asked to stay indoors.

Where is it coming from?

Smoke from wildfires is expected to impact Pennsylvania air quality throughout and will likely contribute to daily average concentrations of fine particulate matter in the Code Orange range on Monday.

Residents are encouraged to check www.airnow.gov for current conditions in their area.

Fine particulate matter (or PM-2.5) comes in many sizes and shapes and can be made up of hundreds of different chemicals. Some are emitted directly from a source, such as construction sites, unpaved roads, fields, smokestacks, or fires.

Most particles form in the atmosphere due to complex reactions of chemicals such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides (called “precursors”), which are pollutants emitted from power plants, industries, and automobiles.

Residents and businesses within the Air Quality Action Day areas are encouraged to voluntarily help reduce pollution by:

• Avoiding the open burning of leaves, trash, and other materials; and
• Avoiding the use of gas-powered lawn and garden equipment.

For more information on the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, visit the website or follow DEP on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.