Britain on smog alert

Heatwave-hit Britain is on smog alert for the first time this summer.

"High" levels of air pollution are due to hit many areas of England and Wales over the weekend.

Traffic fumes trapped in warm still air in city centres will make the problem worse.

Environment Minister Michael Meacher urged everyone to help curb pollutant levels, which can cause hayfever symptoms with runny noses and streaming eyes.

He said it was important everyone had access to air pollution information, so everyone could play their part in trying to help curb it.

"Our national pollution information system is one we can be proud of - let's make sure we all use it now that the summer smog season is beginning."

But the essential thing was to sort the problem out, he said.

"That is why I am reviewing the National Air Quality Strategy and the UK is chairing the negotiations on a new European Directive, which will set new Europe-wide air quality standards for four air pollutants.

"We are also playing an active role in the development of Europe's ozone strategy," he said.

Ground level ozone is created when the sunlight hits vehicle exhaust fumes and gets trapped in the warm still air of narrow streets and city centres.

Without a strong wind to blow the fumes away, people with breathing difficulties, particularly the elderly, can find their symptoms get worse.

Using the car less, switching off the engine when you expect to be stationary for more than a couple of minutes will help curb the fumes.

Avoid overfilling the tank and spilling petrol which evaporates and releases hydrocarbons which are poisonous and form ozone.

Hourly Air Pollution Information can be found on:

CEEFAX (pages 410 - 417)

Free phone [phone])

The Environment Department Website.