An ozone alert is forecasted Monday for Orleans, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. Bernard, St. Tammany and Plaquemines Parishes, according the Louisiana Department of Environment Quality.

The Ozone Action Day may cause unhealthy air quality for the general population.  Active children and adults, the elderly and those with respiratory diseases such as asthma should avoid outdoor activities.  Others, especially children, are advised to avoid prolonged outdoor exertion, according to the DEQ.

DEQ encourages area residents to drive less, carpool, walk and bike and combine errands to cut down on driving.

Residents are also advised to make sure your gas cap is on tight, refuel your vehicle and use gas-powered lawnmowers and off-road vehicles after 6 p.m.

Other advice is to postpone chores with oil-based paints, varnishes and solvents that produce flames.