The Bay Area Air Quality Management District issued a “Spare the Air” warning yesterday due to the unhealthy air quality caused by the Northern California fires.
Spare the Air Alerts are released when air pollution is expected to, or already has, reached unhealthy levels. Earlier this month, the Santa Clara County Fire Department encouraged residents to prepare themselves and their homes in the event that a fire takes place close to home. It was also advised that parents keep a close eye on their children, as they are especially at risk for health issues from wildfire smoke and ash.
In a press release issued the afternoon of Thursday, Aug. 23, Jack Broadbent, Executive Officer of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, said, “Meteorological conditions changed rapidly today causing significant wildfire smoke impacts throughout the Bay Area” and he advised that the community pay close attention to air quality forecasts to protect their health.
The district suggests that outdoor exercise should be limited when a Spare the Air warning is issued.
For more information, visit sparetheair.org.