The Shelby County Health Department is advising people, especially those with breathing disorders, to spend as little time as possible outside on Wednesday due to poor air quality.

The health department has issued a Code Orange Ozone Advisory. The alerts are issued when “the ozone levels are forecast to exceed the 8-hour National Ambient Air Quality Standards,” according to health department officials.

Here are some tips to help reduce ozone levels from the health department:

• Refuel cars and mowers after 7 p.m.
• Carpool and combine daily errands
• Drive less during peak hours or hot days

To help reduce traffic, rides on MATA busses and trolleys will be 25 cents.

It is summertime and that means lots of outdoor recreational events, including a variety of adult & youth sports and activities.  Coaches, parents, officials & fans should be aware that many leagues and venues institute what’s called the “30/30″ rule in regards to lightning. 

Whether you're outside for work or for play, click here to get the scoop on that rule as well as other lightning safety info.

If you don't know your mail carrier it's never a bad idea to show a quick smile and express a hello.

It would also be nice to offer them some water during the Mid-South's hot summers, especially this one.

It's funny but, technically it's not yet summer. Doesn't seem right does it?

Photo courtesy Flickr user bradleygee.