|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
How You Can Help Trip chain more often . It's easy! Chances are, you're already doing it - combining your errands into one trip. It helps you get things done and it helps reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. Conserve electricity. Don't overcool your home. Turn off lights and appliances that aren't in use. Wash clothes and dishes with full loads and close blinds during the day to keep the house cooler. Take the bus, carpool or bike . Even if you do it just once or twice a week, you'll reduce traffic congestion and pollution, and save money. The average cost to operate and maintain one car is more than $7,000 each year! You can find bus routes at www.katbus.com and find potential carpool partners at www.knoxsmarttrips.org. Get fuel when it's cool . Refueling during cooler periods of the day or in the evening can prevent gas fumes from heating up and creating ozone. And that can help reduce ozone alert days. Don't top off the tank . It releases gas fumes into the air and cancels the benefits of the pump's anti-pollution devices. So stopping short of a full tank is safer and reduces pollution. Care for your car . Regular maintenance and tune-ups, changing the oil and checking tire inflation can improve gas mileage, extend your car's life and increase its resale value. It can reduce your car's emissions by more than half. Don’t idle. Turn off the engine if your vehicle is going to be parked or waiting in line for more than 3 minutes. (See sidebar) Wait until the weather cools off to use gasoline-powered mowers and garden equipment. It’s easier on the air, and on you! Don't fume. Avoid using hair spray, air freshener, solvents, and oil based paint. Use natural gas or propane barbecues , or use electric charcoal lighters or chimney starters instead of charcoal lighter fluids. |
You can reduce pollution on an Ozone Action Day by turning your engine off when your vehicle is
|
|
