TCEQ issues ozone action day for Houston area

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- If you plan on heading outdoors today, you might want to rethink your plans.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has issued an ozone alert for areas around Houston, Galveston, and Brazoria.

Ozone is an irritant, so, if you're very young, very old, or already have issues with breathing, you might feel pain or burning in your chest.

"If you are exercising and running in the sun, if you are doing something that is causing a lot of strain, then you are more likely to be breathing deeply and more likely to experience symptoms," explained Emergency Medicine physician Dr. Erik Antonsen.

For more information on ozone dangers, visit these websites:

OZONE: THE FACTS

EPA AIR NOW:

TAKE CARE OF TEXAS

HOUSTON-GALVESTON AREA COUNCIL AIR QUALITY PROGRAMS