Summers always pose a difficult choice for us, especially in the Southwestern desert, because as the temperatures rise so does our use of electricity and the potential for ozone and dust pollution.  There are several simple things we can do to help combat these potential dangerous situations and help us avoid the dreaded “High Pollution Advisories”

1.        Refuel your vehicles after dark and check your tire pressure to help improve your gas mileage

2.       Park your car and go inside to avoid idling in long lines at the bank, fast food restaurants, pharmacies or at your local coffee shop

3.       Conserve electricity with these simple tips: Wash clothes in cold water, line dry your clothes Vs using your dryer, lower your hot water heater thermostat to 120, put your outdoor lights on a timer or use a dusk to dawn sensor.

4.       Use a rake instead of using a leaf blower.

5.       Switch to electric lawn and garden equipment Vs gas powered mowers and trimmers

6.       Car pool and consolidate errands whenever possible.