North Dakota does not require smog and emission checks. But there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself and your family from overexposure to "bad" air. If the news reports a high-air-pollution alert, here's what you can do:

• Stay indoors as much as possible.

• Ride-share or carpool to and from work.

• Telecommute if possible.

• In the summer, turn up your thermostat to conserve energy.

• Ride a bus, subway, metro line, or other public transportation.

• Ride a bike or walk when possible.

• Don't refuel your vehicle during the hottest part of the day; choose a cooler time if you can.

• Avoid using lawn mowers and other gas-powered equipment on alert days.

• Limit or discontinue use of aerosol products, oil-based paints, and solvents.

• Eliminate unnecessary trips; combine errands when possible.

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