The state departments of Environmental Conservation and Health have issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for the Eastern Lake Ontario region, including Jefferson and Oswego counties, for 1 to 10 p.m. today.

Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone — a major component of smog. Automobile exhaust and out-of-state emission sources are the primary causes of ground-level ozone and are the most serious air pollution problems in the Northeast.

People, especially young children, those who exercise outdoors, those involved in vigorous outdoor work and those who have a respiratory disease such as asthma, should consider limiting strenuous outdoor activity. Staying indoors will reduce exposure when outdoor levels of ozone are high. Those experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing should consult their doctor.

For the latest information on air quality, call DEC's toll-free air quality hot line at 1 (800) 535-1345.