Spare the Air

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Whenever wildfires occur, you might notice that the air quality around the Bay Area has become worse.

You might see this phrase used over and over — “Spare the Air” Alerts as seen on news or alert messages.

“Spare the Air” means the air quality becomes worse — rising to unhealthy levels.

Ozone, or smog from wildfire, can cause the followings:
• throat irritation
• congestion
• headache
• chest pain
• trigger asthma
• inflame the lining of the lungs – worsening bronchitis and emphysema

Poor air quality is particularly harmful to “sensitive groups” such as young children, seniors and those with respiratory and heart conditions.

What to do during “Spare the Air” alerts?
• Stay indoors – close your windows and doors
• limit your outdoor exercise to early mornings only
• reduce driving, take public transit
• avoid using gas-powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers
• don’t use lighter fluid on the barbecue grill
• reduce household energy use (limit using electric appliances)

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is the regional agency responsible for protecting air quality in the Bay Area.

For more information about Spare the Air, visit www.sparetheair.org

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