Potential poor air quality prompts Knozone Action Day declaration for June 30

Hannah Brock, Indianapolis Star
·1 min read

Sensitive Indy residents may consider staying inside to avoid poor air quality Thursday.

Amid high temperatures, June 30 is the latest Knozone Action Day and the seventh to occur this summer, per the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Indy recently encountered another Knozone day Wednesday, June 29.

What is a Knozone Action Day

Knozone Action Days occur when ozone levels cause concern for sensitive individuals, like active children, elderly people and people with health conditions like asthma, lung disease and COVID-19. These individuals should consider staying indoors.

Air pollutants can cause hospitalizations, asthma, bronchitis, COPD and premature death.

Indy Hoosiers can help by fueling up after 7 p.m., avoiding gas-powered equipment and if possible, avoid vehicle use altogether during Knozone Action Days.

People should also aim to stay cool. Here's how officials recommend beating the heat:

  • Stay hydrated. Avoid dehydrating drinks like alcohol or caffeine

  • Check on relatives, neighbors, the elderly and those without access to air conditioning.

  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

  • If outside, wear light, loose-fitting clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned room.

  • Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.

  • Pay attention when locking up vehicles and check that no children or pets are left inside. Temperatures inside a car can become lethal in minutes.

  • Bring pets indoors and give them plenty of water to drink.

  • Carry an umbrella for immediate shade.

For more information on Central Indiana's air quality, click here.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indianapolis weather: Knozone Action Day declared for June 30