DaytonDailyNews.com

An Air Pollution Advisory has been issued for Thursday for Montgomery, Greene, Clark and Miami counties due to forecast high levels of particle pollution.

Particle pollution consists of the solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air.

Individually, these particles/droplets are invisible to the naked eye, but collectively, they can appear as clouds or a fog-like haze.

This tiny matter, less than 2.5 microns in diameter, can get deep into people's lungs. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children are considered at greater risk from particles than other people, especially when they are physically active. Exercise and physical activity cause people to breathe faster and more deeply—and to take more particles into their lungs.

Particle pollution comes from many different sources including emissions from diesel and gasoline-powered engines, factories, power plants and outdoor burning. When inhaled, particle pollution can damage lung tissue, aggravate asthma, bronchitis and heart diseases.

Actions you can take to help reduce the formation of particle pollution include:

Reduce Driving: consider carpooling/vanpooling to your destination. Fewer vehicles on the road mean less air pollution overall. Contact RideShare at (937) 223-SAVE or 1-800-743-SAVE for a free list of commuters who want to carpool to work or college.

Avoid idling at banks, drive-thru windows, etc. Idling wastes gasoline and creates concentrated vehicle emissions.

Keep your vehicle maintained: A tuned engine runs more efficiently, saving you gasoline, and creates less air pollution.

Eliminate outdoor burning: Do not burn leaves or trash outdoors. Mulch or compost yard waste.

Your chances of being affected by particle pollution increase the more strenuous your activity and the longer you are active outdoors. If your activity involves prolonged or heavy exertion, reduce your activity time—or substitute another that involves less exertion. Go for a walk instead of a jog, for example. Plan outdoor activities for days when particle levels are lower. And don't exercise near busy roads; particle levels generally are higher in these areas.

For more information about air pollution, contact the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission at (937) 223-6323 or the Regional Air Pollution Control Agency at (937) 225-4435. You can also log on to www.miamivalleyair.org to register to receive "Air Pollution Advisories" via e-mail when they are issued. Click on the EnviroFlash icon and sign up today.