ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) _ State health and environmental officials are urging New Yorkers to take steps to save energy and reduce smog following an air quality advisory Friday in the lower Hudson Valley.

The officials note that summer heat can lead to the formation of ground level ozone, a major component of smog.

One primary source is car exhaust.

The advisory region included New York City, Westchester and Rockland counties.

They say levels generally decrease at night and can be minimized in daytime with less automobile travel, taking public transportation or by car pooling when possible.

The agencies have an air quality hotline for checking conditions at 1-800-535-1345. Information also is online at the web sites for the state health and environmental conservation departments.