Air Quality Alert: Wood-Burning Ban in Effect for Southland
Notice of Ban
A ban on indoor and outdoor wood burning will be in effect until at least 11:59 p.m. Saturday for all those in the South Coast Air Basin, including the non-desert portions of Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, and all of Orange County.
Exemptions
The order does not apply to mountain communities above 3,000 feet, the Coachella Valley or the high desert. Homes that rely on wood as a sole source of heat, low-income households, and those without natural gas service are also exempt from the requirement.
What is Prohibited
Residents in the affected areas are reminded that burning wood in their fireplaces or any indoor or outdoor wood-burning device is prohibited, as is burning manufactured fire logs, such as those made from wax or paper.
Why is this Important?
Fine particles in wood smoke, also known as particulate matter or PM2.5, can get deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems such as asthma. By reducing wood burning, we can minimize the amount of air pollution and protect public health.
Stay Informed
Residents can receive no-burn day notifications by signing up for Air Alerts via email or text online. This will ensure that you are always informed about air quality conditions in your area and can take necessary precautions to protect your health.
Conclusion
The South Coast Air Quality Management District is taking proactive measures to reduce air pollution and protect public health. By following the wood-burning ban, we can all do our part in maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What areas are affected by the wood-burning ban?
A: The non-desert portions of Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, and all of Orange County.
Q: What is exempt from the wood-burning ban?
A: Mountain communities above 3,000 feet, the Coachella Valley or the high desert, homes that rely on wood as a sole source of heat, low-income households, and those without natural gas service.
Q: What types of wood-burning devices are prohibited?
A: All indoor and outdoor wood-burning devices, including fireplaces and manufactured fire logs.
Q: How can I stay informed about air quality conditions?
A: By signing up for Air Alerts via email or text online.
