Ozone Action Days, days when citizens are asked to take easy steps to reduce ozone- causing emissions, are issued for the Austin area when ozone is expected to reach levels nearing the federal standard of health concern. Austin is considered a near non-attainment city. When that happens, there could be economic repercussions under the federal Clean Air Act. These include tougher vehicle inspection standards, business and industrial restrictions, gasoline station controls, or possibly the loss of federal transportation funds. When a high ozone day is predicted in the Austin area, an Ozone advisory is issued for the next day to the media which notify the public that weather conditions are conducive to the formation of high levels of smog.
Most emissions occur from cold engines.
Avoid traffic congestion. Don't idle your engine. Avoid lines at drive-through windows. Delay buying gasoline until the evening when it's cooler. Avoid spilling gasoline and don't top off the tank.