San Pedro Dock Fire: Air Quality Management District Says Stay Indoors

Despite an earlier release today from a local police department saying smoke from the San Pedro dock fire is not toxic, the South Coast Air Quality Management District is now warning residents of harmful smoke.

Here is the smoke advisory in full:

A fire has been burning since 6:40 p.m. last night at a wharf in the Port of Los Angeles in
Wilmington. The fire is contained in a 50 foot by 800 foot area, according to reports, but
is expected to take several hours to completely control. With the sea breeze this
morning, more downwind areas may experience smoke. SCAQMD advises that in
areas impacted by the fire, where residents can see or smell smoke, that individuals
avoid outdoor exposure and avoid activities, if possible.

The areas impacted are South Coastal Los Angeles County (mid-Palos Verdes Peninsula to the Los Angeles-Orange counties line), Southwest Los Angeles County ((from El Segundo to mid-Palos Verdes Peninsula)and North Coastal Orange County (Seal Beach to Newport Beach).

The air quality district recommends In any area impacted by smoke, people should avoid any vigorous outdoor or indoor exertion. People with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should remain indoors.

The district also suggest keeping windows and doors closed or seek alternate shelter. Run your air conditioner if you have one. Keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside.

PHOTO Courtesy the Los Angeles Fire Department.