Southland Air Quality Compromised by Wildfires

ADVISORY
South Coast
Air Quality Management District
http://www.aqmd.gov
SMOKE FROM MULTIPLE WILDFIRES
MAY IMPACT AIR QUALITY IN PARTS OF SOUTHLAND
Although cooler weather is anticipated to assist firefighters battling wildfires, air quality officials have issued a smoke advisory today for several areas across the Southland.
Due to the sea breeze, smoke from the Springs Fire in Ventura County is expected to come onshore today into areas downwind of the fire.  Air quality will likely reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, or higher levels in the following areas directly impacted by smoke:

• the San Fernando Valley;
• the Santa Clarita Valley;
• coastal areas from Malibu to Santa Monica; and
• portions of the San Gabriel Mountains.

In addition, while the Summit Fire near Banning is largely contained, there will be smoke impacts in the immediate vicinity of the fire.
All individuals are urged to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities in any area directly impacted by smoke.  This includes areas where residents can see or smell smoke.
Wildfires generate smoke containing numerous air pollutants including fine particulates known as PM₁₀ and PM_2.5.  
In areas that experience Unhealthy air quality and those directly impacted by smoke:  Everyone should avoid any vigorous outdoor or indoor exertion; people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should remain indoors.  Keep your windows and doors closed unless it is extremely hot inside.  In these cases, seek alternate shelter.  Run your air conditioner if you have one.  Keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside.
For regularly updated air quality information, see the air quality map at www.aqmd.gov.  For more tips on avoiding health impacts from the smoke, see http://www.aqmd.gov/ej/CAC/wildfire_safety_tips.htm on SCAQMD’s website.
SCAQMD is the air pollution control agency for Orange County and major portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.