The Indiana Department of Environmental Management is forecasting high ozone levels in Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties Wednesday, prompting an Air Quality Action Day declaration.

This Air Quality Action Day means conditions are right for ozone to reach levels that may be unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children, the elderly and anyone with cardiac (heart) or pulmonary (lung) problems should reduce or avoid exertion and heavy work outdoors.

Until the Air Quality Action Day forecast expires, sensitive groups should schedule outdoor activities during the early morning or late evening to reduce exposure to ground-level ozone.

Ground-level ozone is formed when sunlight and hot weather bake vehicle exhaust, factory emissions and gasoline vapors. While ozone in the upper atmosphere is necessary to block ultraviolet radiation, ground-level ozone is an irritant to the respiratory system and can cause coughing and difficult breathing. Being exposed to high ozone levels over several days may increase the chance of these symptoms.

Everyone can change their habits to reduce ground-level ozone formation during Air Quality Action Days.

The tips below will help improve air quality.

-- Walk, bike, carpool or use public transportation;

-- Avoid using the drive-through and combine errands into one trip;

-- Avoid using gas-powered lawn equipment;

-- Turn off your engine when idling for more than 30 seconds; and,

-- Conserve energy by turning off lights or turning down the air conditioner.

IDEM examines weather patterns and current ozone readings to make daily air quality forecasts.

To learn more about ozone and sign up to receive air quality forecasts, go to:

http://www.SmogWatch.IN.gov