What should residents do during a Spare the Air alert to reduce air pollution and protect their health? – South Coast Air Quality

Introduction

What to Do During a Spare the Air Alert

During a Spare the Air alert issued by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), residents in the South Coast Air Basin and Coachella Valley are urged to take specific actions that help reduce air pollution and protect everyone’s health. This guide provides clear steps you can follow during these alerts to contribute to cleaner air and safeguard your well-being.

How to Reduce Air Pollution During a Spare the Air Alert

Taking proactive measures during a Spare the Air alert can significantly reduce harmful emissions. Please consider the following important actions:

Limit vehicle use by carpooling, using public transportation, biking, or walking instead of driving alone.
Avoid using gasoline-powered lawn equipment, such as lawn mowers and leaf blowers, which contribute to air pollution.
Reduce or postpone the use of wood burning stoves and fireplaces, which emit particulate matter harmful to air quality.
Reschedule strenuous outdoor activities to times when air quality improves, ideally later in the day or when the alert ends.

How to Protect Your Health During a Spare the Air Alert

In addition to reducing pollution, it is vital to minimize your exposure to unhealthy air. Consider these health-protection tips during alerts:

Stay indoors as much as possible and keep windows and doors closed to reduce outdoor air entering your home.
Use air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters inside your home to help remove airborne particles.
Avoid smoking or using other indoor sources of air pollution when air quality is poor.

Why Your Actions Matter

Every step you take during a Spare the Air alert not only protects your own health but also helps improve the air quality for your family, neighbors, and community. Collective action reduces harmful pollutants that contribute to respiratory issues, heart disease, and environmental damage in the South Coast region.

Learn More and Stay Informed

For detailed information about Spare the Air alerts, real-time air quality updates, and additional ways to protect the environment and public health, please visit the official South Coast AQMD Spare the Air webpage:

https://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/spare-the-air