Code Red days are declared by the Washington Metropolitan Council of Governments when the air quality reaches an unhealthy level, usually from ozone levels, as determined by the EPA. Hazy, hot and humid days during the summer months can cause the ozone level in the air to reach levels that are not safe for small children, the elderly and individuals with breathing difficulties. Ozone is produced from a variety of sources including vehicle and lawnmower exhaust and fumes from gas pumps, just to name a few. During the summer months COG reports the ozone forecast daily.

When a Code Red day has been declared all Montgomery County Ride On bus routes and most Metrobus routes and other local transit systems are FREE. That's Right! It's FREE TO RIDE THE BUS! All in the interest of improving air quality and reducing the amount of ozone agents released by vehicle emissions.