(Via: SEMCOG)

SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, announces that Thursday, May 24, 2012, is the first Ozone Action day of the year. This is the 19th year of the voluntary program that helps keep Southeast Michigan's air clean. This is the first time since 1999 that an Ozone Action day has been called in May.

High pressure and a southerly wind flow will continue to bring warmer temperatures to Southeast Michigan. This, combined with plenty of sunshine, will allow ozone levels to increase.

Here are some things Southeast Michigan residents can do to help keep the air clean on the region's first Ozone Action day of the season:

• Try not to refuel on Ozone Action days. If you can, refuel the night before. If you need to refuel on an Ozone Action day, fill up in the evening when the weather is cooler and don’t “top off” the tank.
• Reduce automobile use on Ozone Action days. Plan to carpool, use public transit, walk, or work at home.
• Relax on Ozone Action days. Choose the lawn chair over the lawn mower.