1st ‘Spare the Air' alert of the season called; wood-burning prohibited
(BAAQMD)
SAN FRANCISCO (KTVU) - Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) called the first winter Spare the Air alert of the season for Saturday, January 2.
BAAQMD reminds that this means a ban on burning wood, manufactured fire logs or any other solid fuel, both indoors and outdoors for 24 hours. Fines for violators start at $100.
Air quality managers say the light winds will contribute to poor air quality in the Bay Area, especially in the Santa Clara Valley.
“Air pollution from wood smoke is one of the greatest health threats to Bay Area residents during the winter months,” said Jack Broadbent, executive officer of the Air District. "Just one burning fireplace can create unhealthy air for an entire neighborhood. It is important that the public refrain from burning, especially during these weather conditions that allow wood smoke to build up."
The 2015-2016 winter Spare the Air season runs from November 1 through February 29.