In Southwest Indiana, ozone pollution is a problem during spring, summer, and early fall, while fine particulate pollution may be a problem year round. These and other air pollutants can be hazardous to our health and environment.

The mission of the air quality program in the Health Department is to preserve and improve the ambient air quality of Vanderburgh County and Southwest Indiana in order to reach attainment of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards set up by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.  This will insure that the citizens of Southern Indiana have healthy air to breathe, while not suffering hindered economic development due to air quality problems.

The Vanderburgh County Ozone Officer evaluates air quality and emissions data and modeling in order to advise officials on air quality planning decisions and to inform and educate the public. Programs on air quality and ozone pollution are available to interested groups. In addition, the Ozone Officer provides technical assistance to the public on air pollution prevention and to business affected by air pollution ordinances, rules, regulations, and laws.

Follow the links provided to the left for more information on many aspects of air quality management.

What You Can Do To Improve Air Quality

There are a few simple things YOU can do during Ozone and Particulate Alerts to reduce emissions and limit levels of air pollution:

  • Wait until 6 PM to refuel your car.
  • Postpone using gas-powered mowers and trimmers until late evening or until after the Ozone Alert has been canceled.
  • Avoid idling your motor, for example at drive-through windows.
  • Postpone unnecessary car trips.
  • Carpool, ride the bus, or ride your bike.
  • Combine necessary errands into one trip.
  • Limit the use of household products that contain VOCs (such as oil based paints).
  • Park your car in the shade.
  • Bring your lunch to work, or walk to the restaurant.
  • DO NOT OPEN BURN (open burning is prohibited during pollution alerts)

There are a few simple things YOU can do Everyday to reduce air pollution:

  • Conserve energy.  Buy fuel efficient vehicles and appliances.
  • Keep your car tuned.
  • Keep your tires properly inflated.
  • Insulate, caulk and weather strip you home.
  • Recycle and never burn your trash.
  • Plant trees.

Click here to view the Citizen’s Guide to Air Pollution Alerts.

Click here to view the City/County Employee Guide to Air Pollution Alerts.