Wildfire Smoke Spurs Spare The Air Alert Saturday For Bay Area

BAY AREA, CA — Following a two-day respite Thursday and Friday from weeks of unhealthy air, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a "Spare the Air" alert for Saturday.

Northerly winds are expected to bring smoke from fires in northern California into the North Bay, Eastern Contra Costa County and the Livermore Valley causing unhealthy air quality Saturday, the BAAQMD said late Friday morning.

"While the last two days brought a much-needed respite from the poor air quality the Bay Area has endured for the past month, air quality is again expected to be unhealthy due to continued impacts from wildfires," said Jack Broadbent, executive officer of the Air District.

"Residents should stay vigilant, track air quality conditions in their communities and head indoors if air pollution reaches unhealthy levels to protect their health," Broadbent said.

The district issues Spare the Air alerts when ozone or particulate matter pollution is forecast to reach unhealthy levels. If the smell of smoke is present or visible, it is important that Bay Area residents protect their health by avoiding exposure, according to the Air District.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a dry scratchy throat and irritated sinuses.

Elevated particulate matter in the air can trigger wheezing in those who suffer from asthma, emphysema or COPD. Elderly persons, children and individuals with respiratory illnesses are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.

"If possible, stay inside with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside, if temperatures allow," the Air District said.

Officials also recommend Bay Area residents set air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate to prevent outside air from moving inside.

Further, when a "Spare the Air" alert is in effect, it is illegal for Bay Area residents to use their fireplaces, wood stove, pellet stoves, outdoor fire pits or any other wood-burning devices that contribute to particulate pollution.