The Illinois EPA displayed vehicle emissions testing and consumer products that are potentially ozone-producing. The Partners members also promote clean air initiatives and conduct public outreach regarding air pollution and the Ozone Action Day program. Ozone Action Days are called when warm weather conditions are conducive to the formation of high levels of ozone. Ground-level ozone levels typically rise between May and October when higher temperatures and an increased amount of sunlight combine with atmospheric conditions, making breathing difficult for many people. Ozone air pollution contributes to lung disease, the third leading cause of death in the United States.
Ozone can cause shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and eye and nose irritation.
It is especially dangerous to older adults, children, asthmatics and people with other chronic respiratory ailments.