No, the Texas Top Ten is not a set of the latest pop tunes popular across the state. But they are music to the ears of those who care about Air Quality in Central Texas. They are 10 actions you can take to keep our Central Texas air clean and healthy. These are especially important when there is an Ozone Action Day, and you need to take immediate action to help us lower emissions.

Ten simple things everyone can do to help keep Central Texas air healthy, especially on Ozone Action Days.

1. Be aware of the Ozone Action Day announcements and take precautions if you are in a sensitive group. Sign up to receive them at cleanairforce.org.
2. Refrain from burning anything because it releases gases and particulates that can contribute to poor air quality.
3. Maintain your vehicles. Make sure vehicles are tuned up and tires inflated to the correct pressure.
4. Replace older gas-burning vehicles with newer ones or purchase an electric or a hybrid vehicle. Replace your gas mower with an electric model.
5. Reduce idling vehicles at schools and drive-through lanes and encourage delivery trucks to turn off their engines when possible.
6. Telecommute or avoid commuting during rush hours.
7. Replace one-person car use with public transportation, carpooling, ridesharing, and combine multiple car trips into one.
8. Replace driving with walking or biking instead of using gasoline or diesel-fueled vehicles.
9. Be Fuel Smart. Fuel vehicles in the evenings and avoid “topping off” of the tank.
10. Reduce your overall energy consumption, if possible. This takes the burden off powerplants on the hot summer days that help create air pollution problems.

By everyone doing their part, together we can make a difference!