Community Corner

Spare the Air Issued for Today

Commuters are encouraged to take public transit.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District announced that today will be the fourth Spare the Air day this year, as air quality is forecasted to be unhealthy. 

It urges people to drive less and reduce energy consumption to minimize pollution levels caused by the excessive heat.

“Air quality is expected to be unhealthy again in the Bay Area,” said Air District Executive Officer Jack Broadbent. “Hot temperatures and tailpipe exhaust contribute to unhealthy smog so it is important that we all reduce our driving every day and take precautions to protect our health.”

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Car exhaust and household chemicals combined with heat and sunlight form ground-level ozone that when breathed causes throat irritation, congestion and chest pain. Residents should also avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

Here are ways to reduce pollution:

Find out what's happening in Millbraewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Bike to work or around town
  • Take public transit
  • Work at home or telecommute
  • Carpool and link your errands to reduce driving
  • Avoid using gas-powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers
  • Reduce household energy use
  • Don’t use lighter fluid on the barbecue
  • Avoid using aerosol spray cleaners, paints and hairspray


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