Breathing Easy: What You Need to Know About the Air Quality Alert

The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for several areas in Southern California. The affected regions include:

• Orange County Coast
• Orange County
• San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys
• Riverside County Mountains
• San Gorgonio Pass Near Banning

The alert is in effect until Sunday, December 14, at 1:15 p.m.

Why is this alert important?

The alert is due to high levels of fine particle pollution. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has extended a mandatory wood-burning ban, prohibiting the use of:

• Wood
• Pellets
• Manufactured fire logs

in indoor or outdoor wood-burning devices.

Fine particles in smoke can:

• Penetrate deep into the lungs
• Cause health problems, including asthma attacks
• Lead to increased emergency room visits and hospitalizations

The alert is based on forecasted fine particle pollution levels for a 24-hour period and may not be reflected in real-time air quality maps.

How to Stay Safe

• Run your air conditioner or an air purifier
• Avoid using devices that bring in outside air, such as:
• Swamp coolers
• Whole house fans

Additional Tips

Seek Shelter Indoors

• Especially if you have respiratory concerns or health issues
• If you are a senior or have children

Minimize Outdoor Activities

• If you must go outside, keep it brief
• Reduce your time outdoors as much as possible

Limit Activities That Contribute to Pollution

• Limit the use of cars, gas-powered lawnmowers, and other motorized vehicles

Avoid Burning Debris or Other Materials

• This can worsen air quality

Stay Informed

• Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news station
• This will help you make informed decisions about outdoor activities

Exercise Extra Caution if You Have Respiratory Problems or Underlying Health Conditions

• These conditions can make you more vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality

By following these tips, you can:

• Enhance your safety during air quality alerts
• Reduce your exposure to harmful pollutants

Stay aware, stay protected, and make your health a top priority.