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TUCSON - Pima County has nearly exceeded the federal standard for ground-level ozone levels, so if you're planning on hitting the BBQ this July 4 (and who isn't?), Pima County has a message for you: nix the lighter fluid.

"Try to barbecue without the lighter fluid over the July 4 holiday weekend and you'll reduce the amount of volatile organic compounds released into the air," states the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality in a news release.

Mixed with sunshine and pollutants, the chemicals ignited in lighter fluid add to the ground-level ozone. Tucson is close to exceeding the federal government's standard for ground-level ozone. Elevated levels can affect children, the elderly and people with lung and heart diseases, such as asthma and congestive heart failure.

If you plan on using a charcoal grill, PDEQ suggests using a charcoal chimney and crumpled paper instead of lighter fluid to light your barbeque. A charcoal chimney is a simple piece of pipe with a handle and a grate at the bottom to hold the charcoal. It takes about 15 minutes to heat the coals to be ready for grilling, PDEQ says.

Grilling with propane gas, natural gas or solar energy also reduces air pollution. PDEQ also suggests using baking soda and water with a wire brush to clean your barbeque, as aerosol oven cleaners give off toxic fumes.