Date

Biyernes, Oktubre 18, 2024

The Air District is issuing an air quality advisory due to wildfire smoke from fires around the Bay Area for Friday, October 18. Smoke from wildfires including the Keller Fire in the East Bay may impact air quality in parts of the Bay Area Friday. Conditions can change rapidly and the amount and location of smoke at ground level is hard to predict.

Spare the Air Status
New 10/18/2024

The public can check for real-time smoke pollution levels in their local area with the U.S. EPA's Fire and Smoke Map.

Smoky, hazy skies may be visible and the smell of smoke is possible.

Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter and other harmful pollutants. Exposure to wildfire smoke is unhealthy, even for short periods of time.

It is important that Bay Area residents protect their health by avoiding exposure if smoke impacts their area. If possible, stay inside with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside. Residents can also reduce their exposure to smoke by setting their car vent systems to re-circulate to prevent outside air from moving inside. The use of indoor air filtration or going to a Clean Air Center or other location with filtered air, such as a library or mall, can also help reduce smoke exposure.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a 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.

The Air District will be closely monitoring air quality throughout the region for smoke impacts. Pollutant levels are not expected to exceed the national 24-hour health standard and therefore, no Spare the Air Alert is in effect. Check the U.S. EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map to see if smoke is affecting your area at: https://fire.airnow.gov/

View press release.

View Wildfire Safety Tips web page.

Last Updated: 10/18/2024