Summer Chill

As summer heats up, ozone creeps up...

Wow!  It has been one hot summer so far...and we're not even halfway through June yet!  We've had NINE ozone action alerts issued so far this month, including seven in a row in the first week of June.

So why all the alerts?

Ozone action alerts are issued when conditions are ripe for an increase in ground-level ozone pollution.  This generally happens when it's hot and sunny and there is little or no wind. 

The alert is issued to caution residents to avoid the activities that cause ground-level ozone.  Remember to chill on those hot, still days and avoid driving, mowing the lawn and painting and staining projects.

Right now, the Denver area is not in violation of the EPA's air quality standards, but it's important on days like this to take some simple actions to make sure ozone levels don't exceed standards.

We all have a share in taking care of our summer air.   

Check out the Rocky Mountain News article on the different factors affecting air quality in Denver.   
You can also sign up to receive an email notification when an ozone action alert is issued so you'll know to use extra caution on alert days. 

Have a great day and try to stay cool!

Chill This Summer!

Looks like we're going to reach more than 90 degrees today...again.  With all the heat and the Ozone Action Alerts issued this month, RAQC wants to help you chill.

The RAQC and partners including REI, Chipotle, Denver Boulder Couriers and KBCO-FM have teamed up for the Summer Chill campaign to encourage Denver residents to avoid the activities that cause ground-level ozone pollution (driving, mowing the lawn, etc.)  Instead, just chill on those hot summer days!  Relax and stick to healthier activities like riding your bike, taking a walk or a hike.  Mowing the lawn can wait!

Even better, our partners are offering some cool incentives to help you chill.  Over the summer, the RAQC will be giving out FREE burrito bucks from Chipotle, coupons from REI, passes to Six Flags Elitch Gardens and tons of other cool prizes.  All you have to do is take the Chill Pledge to be eligible for these great prizes, so check it out online or at the downtown REI store.

Check back soon for more info. on Summer Chill and ways you can help take care of our summer air!