Here's How You Can Reduce 'Ozone' In The Twin Cities Metro

MINNEAPOLIS — Due to high levels of "ozone," the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (PCA) issued an air quality alert Friday that includes all of the Twin Cities metro area. The alert is effective from 12 p.m. through 9 p.m.

"Ozone is produced on hot, sunny days by a chemical reaction between volatile organic compounds and oxides of nitrogen," notes the PCA. "Unhealthy ozone levels can aggravate lung diseases like asthma, emphysema, and COPD."

When located at ground level, ozone is the main ingredient in harmful "smog," notes the Environmental Protection Agency.

Here are tips from the PCA on how to reduce ozone:

Reduce vehicle trips and fill-up the gas tank at dawn or dusk..

Use public transport or carpool when possible.

Postpone use of gasoline powered lawn and garden equipment on air alert days. Use battery or manual equipment instead.

Avoid backyard fires.

Friday will kick off a very hot weekend in the Twin Cities metro area. The high is expected to reach 95 degrees. Read more here.