In the meantime, we're making every effort to alert the public so they can take protective measures when smog levels are unhealthy. The EPA last summer adopted a tougher standard for ozone after dozens of health studies found that breathing relatively low levels of ozone for a prolonged time is harmful to health. Governor Whitman provided strong national leadership by endorsing the new health standard. Ozone is a serious health problem for children, the elderly and persons suffering respiratory or health problems. Even otherwise healthy persons who work or exercise outdoors during high ozone days are also at risk.
New Jersey provides ozone forecasts to the news media seven days a week.
DEP also maintains a toll-free hotline residents can call to hear a tape recorded air quality forecast each weekday. The forecast is updated each afternoon. Since the summer of 1997, DEP has issued advisories based on the new health-based standard. Two initiatives are underway to further improve public notification. Everyone on the list serve will automatically receive an e-mail notification when ozone levels are expected to exceed the health standard.