Spare the Air Day Called For Tuesday

A Spare the Air Day has been called for Tuesday. It is the second Spare the Air Day in a row and the sixth for smog in 2011. Air quality in the area is expected to be unhealthy, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District said.

Air district officials said no free public transportation will be offered, nor will there be a wood burning ban.

"Tomorrow, we are again forecasting unhealthy concentrations of smog,” said Jack Broadbent, executive officer of the Air District in a statement.  “With temperatures continuing to run high, it’s more important than ever that residents drive less, take public transportation, reduce energy use and do their part to minimize pollution." 

The air district recommends that rigorous outdoor exercise should be undertaken only in the early morning hours when ozone concentrations are lower. High levels of ozone pollution are particularly harmful for seniors, young children and people with heart and respiratory conditions.

Residents can take many steps to reduce smog:

• Carpool with co-workers.
• Bike to work and on errands.
• Take public transportation.
• Telecommute. Work from home instead of driving to work.
• Avoid gas-powered lawn mower and leaf blower use.
• Reduce the energy used in your home.
• Avoid aerosol paints, hairsprays and cleaners.
• Avoid using lighter fluid.

To plan your commute online, visit 511.org.

 To monitor current air quality conditions, visit www.sparetheair.org.