APPENDIX F 

HEALTH AND SMOKE ADVISORIES 

Press Release: 2008-06-23 ARB issues health advisory for the greater Sa... http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/nr062308b.htm

7/3/2008 7:37 AM 1 of 2

Release 08-58

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 2, 2008

 

Dimitri Stanich

(916)322-2825

www.arb.ca.gov

Health advisory for Northern California extended

Smoke from wildfires improves in Sacramento Valley, 

still critical in some mountain locations

SACRAMENTO -- 

The California Air Resources Board and numerous local air quality agencies in Northern California are upgrading their health advisories to

recommend individuals suspend outdoor activities in areas of 'Unhealthy' air quality. Local air districts are joining with health departments in

many parts of northern California, advising people to stay informed about air quality levels in their areas and take action to protect their health

from the smoke created by the many wildfires burning around the state.

While the fires continue to burn, favorable winds are providing a much needed respite from days of unhealthy air quality. As with last week, the

mountain and foothill communities around the Valley, such as Ukiah, Paradise, Quincy and Weaverville are the hardest hit. Auburn and

Placerville saw high levels at times even during the increased winds early this week. Fortunately, even these areas have seen intermittent

improvement in air quality, but too often hours later smoke often returns at times at unhealthy or very unhealthy levels.

Until the fires are extinguished, the ARB and local districts will continue to review and supplement air monitoring resources so air districts and

public health officials have the information they need to take appropriate steps to protect public health. The air monitoring conditions are

updated regularly and available on the Internet at airnow.gov.

There are a number of choices people can make to reduce their exposure and avoids the ill effects of smoke. The most effective is to simply

avoid being outdoors. Eliminate participation in outdoor activities while the air quality is in the unhealthy range. Exposure and the ensuing health

effects are generally dependent on the amount of time you are outside, your level of your exertion, and the air quality level itself. The effects can

be as mild as eye, nose and throat irritation or headache, to more serious effects that trigger asthma episodes or other direct stresses on

weakened cardiovascular systems. Children and older individuals should take great care and refrain from participating in outdoor activities when

the threat of exposure is high. Those with pre-existing heart and lung problems should consider curtailing activities at one level below AQI

Unhealthy, or Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. Even healthy people may experience some of these symptoms in smoky conditions. Seek

medical help if you experience symptoms that worsen or become severe.

Making the decision to cancel or reschedule active outdoor events is difficult, but when smoke levels reach Unhealthy levels, it is the prudent

decision to protect your health. Other measures include:

Stay indoors with windows and doors closed; run air-conditioner on "re-circulate" setting. Do not run swamp coolers or whole house fans. It

is recommended that heat sensitive individuals use fans for cooling or they may consider leaving the area;

Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, during smoky conditions;

People in a "high risk" group or those who cannot find adequate shelter from the smoke outside may need to move to a emergency shelter;

and,

Disposable particulate respirators found at hardware stores can be effective at reducing exposure to smoke particles as long as they seal

closely to the wearer's face. Look for respirators that have two straps and have the words "NIOSH" and either "P100" or "N95" printed on

the filter material. Guidance on the proper selection, use, and replacement of respirators will be available shortly and linked to the ARB web

page.

Public officials may take other precautions, including closing school and businesses, canceling public events and calling for evacuation. If you

are evacuated, make sure to drive with the windows rolled up and the air conditioner on "re-circulate."

With these fires, it's especially important for people with asthma or other respiratory diseases or heart conditions to monitor their health and

consult with their health care providers if their symptoms worsen. Individuals with moderate or severe heart or respiratory disease might

consider staying with relatives or friends who live away from the smoke during the fires. If smoke is already present in substantial quantities,

such individuals may want to evaluate whether evacuation might actually cause greater exposure than staying at home using other precautions

described above.

Additionally, be aware that small pets in areas with unhealthy air should be brought indoors if possible.

For current information about local smoke conditions, find your local air quality management group here:

http://www.arb.ca.gov/capcoa/roster.htm

For current and forecast particulate matter AQI information: http://airnow.gov .

More information on how to protect yourself is available here: http://www.airquality.org/smokeimpact/
Press Release: 2008-06-23 ARB issues health advisory for the greater Sa... http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/nr062308b.htm

7/3/2008 7:37 AM 2 of 2

For a guide for public officials on wildfire smoke go to: http://www.arb.ca.gov/smp/progdev/pubeduc/wfgv8.pdf .

______________

Below are photos of filters used to in monitors that measure particulate matter in the air. The samples ran for about one day. The white filter is a

blank unexposed filter. The brown one is from Willits and the blackest one is from Ukiah. The Ukiah sample would be labeled 'Very Unhealthy.'

Images courtesy of Mendocino County Air Pollution Control District. You can see their webpage here:

http://www.co.mendocino.ca.us/aqmd/index.htm .

The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to

promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while

recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to

attain and maintain health based air quality standards.

# # # # #
 NEWS

For Immediate Release Contact: Kristine Roselius 

June 23, 2008 415.749.4900 

Air District advises public about smoke impacts from local wildfires 

 SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is issuing a 

smoke advisory to residents in the Bay Area due to impacts from several local wildfires, 

including one near Napa and Fairfield. 

 The Air District has recorded elevated levels of particulate matter in the Bay Area 

and is advising the public in areas affected by the smoke to be cautious and limit 

exposure to the smoky air. 

 Stronger on-shore winds this afternoon are expected to help disperse smoke. 

 Residents in areas affected by smoke are advised to: 

• Reduce exposure to smoky air by remaining indoors with windows and doors 

closed 

• Set air conditioning units and car vent systems to recirculate 

• Limit outdoor activities to avoid unnecessary exposure 

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat and 

irritated sinuses. Elderly persons, children, and individuals with heart or lung disease 

are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra 

precautions to avoid exposure. Persons experiencing severe symptoms should seek 

professional medical advice or treatment. 

Residents are asked to pay attention to health advisories that may be issued by 

local County Health Officers in the event of a threat to public health due to excessive 

smoke in their communities. 

 The Air District will continue to monitor and measure the smoke impacts in the 

downwind areas and issue additional advisories as conditions warrant 

 For more information about smoke impacts please visit the CAPCOA website: 

www.airquality.org/smokeimpact/. 

# # # 
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

June 23, 2008 

A JOINT AIR QUALITY ADVISORY ISSUED BY THE 

BUTTE COUNTY AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

AND

BUTTE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH

To: 

Public Safety Personnel School Officials 

News Media Sac. Valley Air Basin Coordinating Council 

County/City Officials Adjacent Air Quality Management Districts 

County Health Officer California Air Resources Board 

Local/State Law & Fire Federal Environmental Protection Agency 

Butte County & City Managers Local Hospitals 

 

From: W. James Wagoner, Air Pollution Control Officer 

 Dr. Mark Lundberg, MD, Health Officer 

The Butte County Air Quality Management District Air Pollution Control Officer, and the Butte 

County Public Health Officer are issuing this Air Quality Advisory to notify the public of 

unhealthful air quality in Butte County with localized areas of hazardous air quality conditions 

due to smoke from the numerous fires in Butte and Shasta counties. The Air Quality Index is 

forecast to reach 150. At this level the air quality is unhealthy for all people. These conditions 

are expected to continue until the fires are extinguished. 

Smoke from wildfires and structure fires contain significant quantities of irritating chemicals. 

Residents may experience symptoms during and after being exposed to smoke from the wildfire, 

including eye irritation, throat irritation, and coughing. Some people with existing heart and lung 

disease, including asthma, may experience heightened symptoms. Even healthy people may 

experience some of these symptoms in smoky conditions. Seek medical help if you experience 

symptoms that worsen or become severe. 

Recommendations for Minimizing Smoke Exposure

9 Stay indoors with windows and doors closed; run air-conditioner on “recirculate” setting. Do 

not run swamp coolers. 

9 Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, during smoky conditions. 

9 People in a “high risk” group or those who cannot find adequate shelter from the smoke 

outside may need to move to a emergency shelter. 
9 Masks that filter out 95% of particles measuring 0.3 micrometers diameter or larger (called 

“N95” or “R95” masks) can be effective if properly fitted to the wearer’s face. These can be 

found at large hardware and home stores. HEPA filter masks are recommended. 

Public officials may take other precautions, including closing schools and businesses, cancelling 

public events, and calling for evacuation. If you are evacuated, make sure to drive with the 

windows rolled up and the air conditioner on “recirculate.” Masks may also be worn when in 

transit to shelters to minimize smoke exposure. 

With these fire and wind conditions, it’s especially important for people with asthma or other 

respiratory diseases or heart conditions to monitor their health and consult with their health care 

providers if their symptoms worsen. Individuals with respiratory illness should consider leaving 

the area until air quality conditions improve. 

Stayed tuned for emergency announcements on radio and TV about air quality and any calls for 

evacuations. 

The following index will assist in assessing the air quality based on the visibility in your area. To 

assess visibility: 

• Face away from the sun. Determine visibility range by looking for targets that are at 

known distances (miles). 

• The visible range is the point where even high-contrast objects disappear. 

• After determining visibility in miles use the following Wildfire Smoke Visibility Index to 

assess air quality. 

Information will be updated and posted to the District website as available at 

WWW.BCAQMD.ORG. 

### 

Visibility Range Health Category Health Effects 

10+ miles Good None 

5 – 10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should consider 

reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. 

3 – 5 miles Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

Sensitive people should reduce 

prolonged or heavy exertion. 

1.5 – 2.5 miles Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid prolonged 

or heavy exertion. Everyone else should 

reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. 

1 – 1.25 miles Very Unhealthy Very Unhealthy Sensitive people should 

avoid all physical activity outdoors 

Everyone else should avoid prolonged or 

heavy exertion. 

<0.75 miles Hazardous Sensitive people should remain indoors 

and keep activity levels low. Everyone 

else should avoid all physical activity 

outdoors. 

306 East Gobbi Street 

Ukiah, California 95482 

(707) 463-4354 Fax: 463-5707 

mcaqmd@co.mendocino.ca.us 

www.co.mendocino.ca.us/aqmd

CHRISTOPHER D. BROWN, AICP 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

DONNA ROBERTS NASH 

Program Coordinator 

MENDOCINO COUNTY 

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 

For Immediate Release 

Air Quality Alert Issued 6-23-08 

For all areas of Mendocino County 

Individuals Should Limit Outdoor Activities 

(Ukiah) - Smoke accumulation from multiple wildland fires throughout Mendocino County and 

Northern California will continue to remain fairly heavy today throughout the County. Overnight 

temperature inversions may cause heavier smoke concentrations in lower elevations and valleys. 

Because of the increased pollutant levels, the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District 

is issuing an Air Quality Alert for today, Monday, June 23, 2008, through 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, 

June 24, 2008. 

The increased pollutant level is creating a situation that could impact all individuals. 

Christopher D. Brown, Air Pollution Control Officer for Mendocino County, advises that all 

individuals, especially the elderly, individuals with respiratory disease and anyone else who is 

especially sensitive to air pollution limit their outdoor activities today. 

Persons experiencing any of the following symptoms should contact a health care provider:

Headache; Repeated Coughing; Chest Tightness Or Pain; Difficulty In Breathing; or Nausea. 

Over the next few days, smoke is likely to be especially heavy in the Boonville and Ukiah areas. 

Smoke concentrations in these areas may reach levels considered to be ‘Very Unhealthy’ under 

state and federal air quality standards. 

The District also would like to remind the public that the countywide burn ban issued by the 

California Department of Forestry (Cal Fire) remains in effect; all outdoor burning is currently 

suspended. 

23-June, 2008 8:30 AM 

About the District – The Mendocino County Air Quality Management District is one of 35 Air Districts in California 

and was created by the state legislature in 1971. The mission of the Mendocino County Air Quality Management 

District is to protect and manage air quality, an essential public resource upon which the health of the community 

depends. The District’s Executive Officer is Christopher D. Brown, AICP 

C^AQAlert06-23-08 





Page 1 of 1 

News Release 

06-23-08 

For Immediate Release 

TO: 

Local News, Health and 

Weather sections 

Central District Media Contact - Fresno 

Jaime Holt 

(559) 230-6000 

North District Media Contact 

Anthony Presto 

(209) 557-6400 

South District Media Contact - Bakersfield 

Brenda Turner 

(661) 326-6900 

Smoke from wildfires impacts air quality 

Air District cautions to limit exposure 

Smoke throughout the San Joaquin Valley has prompted local air-pollution officials to issue a 

health cautionary statement today which remains effective until fires are extinguished. 

“Winds are transporting smoke from fires throughout California into all eight counties of the San 

Joaquin Valley air basin, which include: San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, 

Tulare and Valley portions of Kern,” said Shawn Ferreria, Senior Air Quality Specialist from the 

Valley Air District. 

Air District monitoring stations throughout the Valley are picking up elevated levels of particulate 

matter from smoke. 

Exposure to particle pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, cause 

asthma attacks and acute bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections. In people with 

heart disease, short-term exposure to particle pollution has been linked to heart attacks and 

arrhythmias, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

Residents of the eight counties are advised to use caution. People with heart or lung diseases 

should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of unhealthy air quality. Additionally, 

older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion. 

Everyone else should reduce prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion. 

The Valley Air District covers eight counties including San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, 

Fresno, Kings, Tulare and San Joaquin Valley air basin portions of Kern. For more information, 

visit http://www.valleyair.org/ or call the nearest District office: Modesto (209) 557-6400, Fresno 

(559) 230-6000 and Bakersfield (661) 326-6900.
 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

June 24, 2008 

A JOINT AIR QUALITY ALERT ISSUED BY THE 

BUTTE COUNTY AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

AND

BUTTE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH

To: 

Public Safety Personnel School Officials 

News Media Sac. Valley Air Basin Coordinating Council 

County/City Officials Adjacent Air Quality Management Districts 

County Health Officer California Air Resources Board 

Local/State Law & Fire Federal Environmental Protection Agency 

Butte County & City Managers Local Hospitals 

 

From: W. James Wagoner, Air Pollution Control Officer 

 Dr. Mark Lundberg, MD, MPH, Health Officer 

The Butte County Air Quality Management District Air Pollution Control Officer and the Butte County 

Public Health Officer are issuing an Air Quality Advisory to notify the public of unhealthful air quality in 

Butte County with localized areas of hazardous air quality conditions due to smoke from the numerous 

fires in Butte and Shasta counties. 

Yesterday Butte County exceeded the federal health-based average 24-hour Ambient Air Quality Standard 

of 35 micro grams per cubic meter (ug/m3) for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The 24-hour average 

yesterday was 109 ug/m3 which is equal to an Air Quality Index of 176. Today the Air Quality Index is 

forecast to reach 205. At this level the air quality is rated VERY UNHEALTHY for all people; these 

conditions are expected to continue until the fires are extinguished. 

Smoke from wildfires and structure fires contain significant quantities of irritating chemicals. Residents 

may experience symptoms during and after being exposed to smoke, including eye irritation, throat 

irritation and coughing. People with existing heart and lung disease, including asthma, may experience 

heightened symptoms. They should monitor their health and consult with their health care provider should 

their symptoms worsen. These individuals should consider leaving the area until air quality conditions 

improve. Even healthy people may experience some of these symptoms in smoky conditions. Seek 

medical help if you experience symptoms that worsen or become severe. 

Recommendations for Minimizing Smoke Exposure

9 Stay indoors with windows and doors closed; run air-conditioner on “recirculate” setting. Do not run 

swamp coolers. If it becomes too warm indoors, individuals may consider leaving the area to seek 

alternative shelter. 
9 Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, during smoky conditions. 

9 People in a “high risk” group or those who cannot find adequate shelter from the smoke outside may 

need to move to an emergency shelter. 

9 Masks that filter out 95 percent of particles measuring 0.3 micrometers diameter or larger (known as 

“N95” or “R95” masks) can be effective if properly fitted to the wearer’s face. These can be found at 

large hardware and home stores. HEPA filter masks are recommended. 

Public officials may take other precautions, including closing schools and businesses, cancelling public 

events and calling for evacuation. If you are evacuated, make sure to drive with the windows rolled up 

and the air conditioner on “recirculate.” Masks may also be worn when in transit to shelters to minimize 

smoke exposure. 

Additionally, pet owners should consider bringing their small animals indoors out of the unhealthy air 

conditions if possible. 

Stay tuned for emergency announcements on radio and TV about air quality and updates on evacuations. 

Use the following index to assess the air quality based on the visibility in a given area: 

• Face away from the sun. Determine visibility range by looking for targets that are at known 

distances (miles). 

• The visible range is the point where even high-contrast objects disappear. 

• After determining visibility in miles use the following Wildfire Smoke Visibility Index to assess 

air quality. 

Information will be updated and posted to the District Web site as available at WWW.BCAQMD.ORG. 

Following is the Air Quality Index table for Particle Pollution for reference. 

Visibility Range Health Category Health Effects 

10+ miles Good None 

5 – 10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should consider 

reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. 

3 – 5 miles Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

Sensitive people should reduce 

prolonged or heavy exertion. 

1.5 – 2.5 miles Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid prolonged 

or heavy exertion. Everyone else should 

reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. 

1 – 1.25 miles Very Unhealthy Very Unhealthy Sensitive people should 

avoid all physical activity outdoors 

Everyone else should avoid prolonged or 

heavy exertion. 

<0.75 miles Hazardous Sensitive people should remain indoors 

and keep activity levels low. Everyone 

else should avoid all physical activity 

outdoors. 
Air Quality Index (AQI): Particle Pollution 

Index 

Values 

Levels 

of Health 

Concern 

Cautionary Statements 

0-50 Good None 

51-100* Moderate 

Unusually sensitive people 

should consider reducing 

prolonged or heavy exertion. 

101-150 Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should reduce 

prolonged or heavy exertion. 

151-200 Unhealthy 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should avoid prolonged 

or heavy exertion. Everyone 

else should reduce prolonged or 

heavy exertion. 

201-300 Very Unhealthy 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

Everyone else should avoid 

prolonged or heavy exertion. 

301-500 Hazardous 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should remain indoors 

and keep activity levels low. 

Everyone else should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

### 

Plumas County Air Quality Advisory http://www.myairdistrict.com/index.php/air-quality-advisory/plumas-county

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Plumas County Air Quality Advisory

Plumas County Public Health Agency 

270 County Hospital Road, Quincy, California 95971 

Mimi Hall, MPH, CHES, Director 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

June 24, 2008 through June 27, 2008

Contact information: Lori Pini, Health Education Specialist 283-6988 

Plumas County Air Quality Advisory 

Public health officials and the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District (NSAQMD) report that today’s Air Quality Index (AQI) in some ar

County has reached very unhealthy levels, meaning everyone, even healthy people, may experience more serious health effects. The Air Quality In

change based on weather and fire conditions. As NSAQMS predicts air quality will continue to be affected until fire conditions improve, public

advise all residents to stay alert to changing smoke levels caused by area fires.

During periods when the smoke is especially dense, air quality may fall into the "very unhealthy" or even "hazardous range". If you smell smoke

around you, consider restricting your outside activities. Sports teams should consider suspending practices or events that require prolonged ou

activity, particular for children or older adults.

To Protect Your Family From the Health Effects of Smoke:

1. • Pay attention to local air quality reports and stay alert to any news coverage or health warnings related to smoke.

• Use common sense. If it looks smoky outside, it's probably not a good time to mow the lawn or go for a run. And it's probably not a good time for your c

outdoors.

2.

3. • If you are advised to stay indoors, take steps to keep indoor air as clean as possible. Keep your windows and doors closed - unless it's extremely hot outs

• Run your air conditioner, if you have one. Keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. Note: If you d

conditioner, staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in extremely hot weather. In these cases, seek alternative shelter.

4.

• Help keep particle levels inside lower. When smoke levels are high, try to avoid using anything that burns, such as wood fireplaces, gas logs, gas stoves -

candles! Don't vacuum. That stirs up particles already inside your home. And don't smoke. That puts even more pollution in your lungs, and in the lungs of

you.

5.

• If you have asthma or other lung disease, make sure you follow your doctor's directions about taking your medicines and following your asthma managem

your doctor if your symptoms worsen. If you have heart or lung disease, if you are an older adult, or if you have children, talk with your doctor about whet

you should leave the area. When smoke is heavy for a prolonged period of time, fine particles can build up indoors.

6.

2 

County officials will continue to monitor the smoke levels in Plumas County and provide updates on this advisory as needed. To find out more information regard

please visit www.airnow.gov. For an update of local conditions, please visit www.countyofplumas.com. 

Advisory for Tuesday, June 24, 2008 

-o0oHome Air Quality Advisory search... Plumas County

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HEALTH ADVISORY

For Immediate Release Contacts: Lisa Fasano Holly Garcia 

June 25, 2008 Bay Area Air District Solano County 

 415.749.4900 Public Health Office

 707.580.5485 

 

Air quality in Bay Area unhealthy due to smoke from wildfires 

SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District in consultation with 

Solano County Health Officer Ron Chapman, M.D.,M.P.H., is issuing a health advisory to 

residents in the Bay Area due to unhealthy air quality from Northern California wildfires. 

Air quality throughout much of Solano, Contra Costa, Alameda, Sonoma and Marin 

Counties is forecast to reach unhealthy levels today and tomorrow. The Air District has 

recorded elevated levels of particulate matter throughout the Bay Area, but especially in the 

northern and eastern parts of the region, and is advising the public to limit their exposure to 

the smoky air. 

“The wildfire smoke is definitely impacting local air quality,” said Air District Communications 

Director Lisa Fasano. “We are recommending that the public limit their outdoor activities 

and pay attention to local weather forecasts to monitor conditions.” 

Southern Solano County had the highest particulate matter readings today due to smoke 

impacts from the Northern California fires, and these levels are forecast to remain high 

tomorrow. 

Bay Area residents are advised to: 

• Limit outdoor activities to avoid unnecessary exposure 

• Reduce exposure to smoky air by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed 

• Set air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate 

• If you have asthma or other lung disease, make sure you follow your doctor's 

directions about taking your medicines and following your asthma management plan. 

Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen. 

• If you have heart or lung disease, if you are an older adult, or if you have children, 

talk with your doctor about whether and when you should leave the area. 

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat and irritated 

sinuses. Elderly persons, children, and individuals with heart or lung disease are 

particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra precautions to 

avoid exposure. Persons experiencing severe symptoms should seek professional medical 

advice or treatment. 

Residents are asked to pay attention to health advisories that may be issued by local 

County Health Officers in the event of a threat to public health due to excessive smoke in 

their communities. The Air District will continue to monitor smoke impacts and issue 

additional advisories as conditions warrant. 

-more- 
-page 2 of 2- 

A Spare the Air advisory is not in effect. On Spare the Air days, residents are encouraged to 

reduce driving and curb other activities that produce ground-level ozone. The high pollution 

levels forecast for today are due to wildfires. 

For more information about smoke impacts please visit www.sparetheair.org or the 

CAPCOA website: www.airquality.org/smokeimpact/. 

# # # 
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Easterm Nevada County Air Quality Advisory

AIR QUALITY ALERT FOR ALL CITIZENS – SMOKE

EASTERN NEVADA COUNTY

The advisory yesterday was geared toward sensitive individuals. Conditions have worsened 

considerably. The PM2.5 levels (respirable particles less than 2.5 microns in size) are currently in the 

UNHEALTHY range on the Air Quality Index chart. The elevated PM2.5 levels may exacerbate health 

symptoms.

Until the present conditions improve, individuals should consider taking the following actions:

 Everyone should avoid outdoor activities if you can see or smell smoke, even if you’re healthy

Children, the elderly and people with respiratory or heart conditions should be particularly 

careful to avoid exposure 

Stay indoors with doors and windows closed as much as possible 

Asthmatics should follow their asthma management plan 

Contact your doctor if you have symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms 

you believe to be caused by smoke 

Those with heart disease should especially limit their smoke exposure since PM can 

substantially increase the risk of heart attacks 

As a general rule of thumb consider this: If you see smoke and smell smoke, you are most likely 

breathing unhealthy levels of particulates. The more smoke you see and smell, the higher the 

unhealthy levels of particulates. 

Scientific studies have linked fine particulate matter (smoke) with significant health problems, including 

premature death, respiratory related hospital admissions, aggravated asthma, acute respiratory 

symptoms (including severe chest pain, gasping, and aggravated coughing) and chronic bronchitis. 

Exposure to unhealthful particulate matter levels can result in chest pain, coughing, nausea, shortness 

of breath, throat irritation, headaches, congestion and chest discomfort. It may also worsen bronchitis, 

heart disease, emphysema, and asthma.

Sensitive groups and individuals (those most at risk from exposure to smoke) are the elderly, children, 

asthmatics, and adults with pre-existing heart and lung disease, pregnant women, and athletes.

The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District advises that all people avoid outdoor 

exertion during these Hazardous conditions. 

This Air Quality Alert is valid for: 

Wednesday, June 25, 2008 and Thursday, 

June 26

Please sign up for one or more of our lists to help us keep you informed as to the conditions around 

you! Go to www.myairdistrict.com and sign up today!

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County

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Western Nevada County Air Quality Advisory

AIR QUALITY ALERT FOR ALL CITIZENS –

SMOKE & OZONE

WESTERN NEVADA COUNTY

Conditions today are just as bad as yesterday and maybe a little worse since the ozone levels are 

staying in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Individuals range. We cannot stress enough that the air quality is 

as bad as it has ever been in the last 15 years. The PM2.5 levels (respirable particles less than 2.5 

microns in size) are currently in the HAZARDOUS range on the Air Quality Index chart (that is as high 

as it goes) and we expect it may remain in the HAZARDOUS range for the next few days. Ozone 

levels appear to be staying in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Individuals range during more hours of the 

day and especially in the evening hours. The combination of elevated ozone levels and hazardous 

PM2.5 levels may exacerbate health symptoms. Here is the EPA language for Hazardous levels of air 

pollution:

EVERYONE SHOULD AVOID ALL PHYSICAL 

ACTIVITY OUTDOORS.

The Air District is recommending that all outdoor sporting activities be cancelled immediately until 

conditions improve considerably. As a general rule of thumb consider this: If you see smoke and smell 

smoke, you are most likely breathing unhealthly levels of particulates. The more smoke you see and 

smell, the higher the unhealthy levels of particulates. Until the present conditions improve, individuals 

should consider taking the following actions:

AVOID ALL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OUTDOORS.

Scientific studies have linked fine particulate matter (smoke) with significant health problems, including 

premature death, respiratory related hospital admissions, aggravated asthma, acute respiratory 

symptoms (including severe chest pain, gasping, and aggravated coughing), chronic bronchitis, 

decreased lung function, and work and school absences. Exposure to unhealthful ozone levels can 

result in chest pain, coughing, nausea, shortness of breath, throat irritation, headaches, congestion 

and chest discomfort. It may also worsen bronchitis, heart disease, emphysema, and asthma.

Sensitive groups and individuals (those most at risk from exposure to ground level ozone) are the 

elderly, children, asthmatics, and adults with pre-existing heart and lung disease, pregnant women, 

and athletes. The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District advises that all people avoid 

outdoor exertion during these Hazardousconditions. 

This Air Quality Alert is valid for: Wednesday, 

June 25, 2008 and Thursday, June 26, 2008

For current ozone and PM2.5 conditions or to learn more about air pollution go to 

www.sparetheair.com

Home Air Quality Advisory search... Western Nevada County
938 14th Street 

938 14th Street 

Marysville, CA 95901 

(530) 634-7659

FAX (530) 634-7660 

www.fraqmd.org 

David A. Valler, Jr. 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

For immediate release 

June 25, 2008 

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY

Air Quality in Yuba and Sutter counties remains unhealthy due to smoke from the numerous fires in the 

area. Yesterday’s poor air quality reached its highest level late afternoon. Today’s air quality promises 

more of the same with early indications that by late morning, the air quality will again reach unhealthy 

levels. Feather River Air Quality Management District is issuing an Air Quality Advisory to notify the 

public of unhealthy air quality in Yuba and Sutter Counties. 

Scientific studies have linked the fine particles associated with smoke with a variety of significant health 

problems. Sensitive people should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertions. While all persons may 

experience varying degrees of symptoms, the more sensitive individuals are at greatest risk to experience 

more aggravated symptoms which may include, but are not limited to coughing, scratchy throat, watery 

and itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing. 

If you smell smoke, or see smoke around you, consider restricting your outside activities. Until the 

present conditions improve, individuals should consider taking the following actions: 

• Healthy people should delay strenuous exercise, particularly when they can smell smoke. 

• Children and elderly people should consider avoiding outdoor activities, particularly prolonged 

outdoor exertion. 

• People with health-related illnesses, particularly respiratory problems, should remain indoors. 

• Using paper mask filters, which are not capable of filtering extra-fine smoke particles, and which 

restrict airflow, is not recommended. 

• Stay inside with doors and windows shut. Use the recycle or re-circulate mode on the air 

conditioner in your home or car. Avoid cooking and vacuuming, which can increase pollutants 

indoors. 

• Asthmatics should follow their asthma management plan. 

• Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, 

or severe fatigue. This is important for not only people with chronic lung or heart disease, but 

also for individuals who have not been previously diagnosed with such illnesses. Smoke can 

“unmask” or produce symptoms of such diseases. 

• Keep airways moist by drinking lots of water. Breathing through a warm, wet washcloth can also 

help relieve dryness. 

In addition, all open burning is prohibited during this period. 

For further information, contact the Feather River Air Quality Management District at (530) 634-7659. 


Amador County Health Department 

10877 Conductor Blvd. Ste 400 

Sutter Creek, California 95685 

Phone (209) 223-6407

Fax (209) 223-1562 

publichealth@co.amador.ca.us 

Health Advisory 

Amador County 6/23/08 4:40 PM 

Is smoke bad for me? 

Amador County’s air quality conditions have reached a level to be a health concern for some residents. It is 

recommended to avoid breathing smoke if you can help it. If you are healthy, you usually are not at a major 

risk from smoke. But there are people who are at risk, including people with heart or lung diseases, such as 

congestive heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema or asthma. Children and the 

elderly also are more susceptible to smoke 

Recommendations for residents who see or smell smoke to do the following: 

• Use common sense. If it looks smoky outside, discontinue strenuous exercise activity by children, students 

and adults. 

• Stay indoors; keep your windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner, if you have one. Be sure to 

keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean. 

• Help keep particle levels inside your house low by avoiding using anything that burns, including wood 

stoves and gas stoves if possible. And don’t smoke cigarettes. That just puts even more pollution in your 

lungs – and those of the people around you. 

• If you have asthma or respiratory conditions, be sure to take your medicines, as prescribed by your doctor. 

Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen and /or consider leaving the area to go to a less smoky location 

How do I know if smoke is affecting me? 

You may have a scratchy throat, cough, irritated sinuses, headaches, runny nose and stinging eyes. Children 

and people with lung diseases may find it difficult to breathe as deeply or vigorously as normally, and they 

may cough or feel short of breath. People with diseases such as asthma or chronic bronchitis may find their 

symptoms worsening. 

Are the effects of smoke permanent? Healthy adults generally find that their symptoms (runny noses, 

coughing, etc.) disappear after the smoke is gone.

Will wearing a mask help with the smoke? 

In general, a mask is not effective with the smoke. In order for a mask to provide protection, it must 

be able to filter very small particles and it must fit well, providing an airtight seal around the 

wearer’s mouth and nose. The paper dust masks, commonly available, are designed to filter out 

large particles and typically offer little protection from the small particles in smoke. 

Website information for air quality sparetheair.com (there is nothing available specifically for 

Amador County). 

Wild fire information and locations http://cdfdata.fire.ca.gov/incidents/incidents_current
Bay Area Air Quality Management District - BAAQMD http://www.baaqmd.gov/

6/26/2008 10:13 AM 1 of 2

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Spare the Air

Get your daily air 

quality forecast here.

The Spare the Air 

Program informs 

the public about 

air pollution and 

encourages them 

to change their behavior 

to prevent it.

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Receive $650 to retire 

your working 1987 or 

older vehicle.

High - Low

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Health Advisory: Wildfires

Smoke from wildfires in northern and central California is currently

affecting air quality in the Bay Area. Air quality in portions of Alameda, 

Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma Counties is forecast to 

exceed federal health standards on June 25 and 26. The Bay Area Air

Quality Management District is advising residents in areas affected by the 

smoke to be cautious and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. For more 

information about local wildfires, see the CAL FIRE website, and the USDA 

Forest Service. For general smoke and fire information, see our wildfire 

safety tips and CAPCOA’s Smoke Impact information and resources.

Welcome!

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is committed to achieving

clean air to protect the public's health and the environment in the San

Francisco Bay region. The Air District aims to:

· Attain and Maintain Air Quality Standards

· Increase Public Awareness of Positive Air Quality Choices

· Develop and Implement Protocol and Policies for Environmental Justice

Wildfires

The Bay Area is currently in its wildfire season. The Air District monitors

general air quality in the region and will issue a health advisory if wildfire 

smoke appears to be causing elevated levels of particulate pollution.

Residents should take precautions if they are experiencing localized effects 

of wildfire smoke. For general smoke and fire information, see our wildfire 

safety tips and CAPCOA’s information and resources.

Updated Ambient Air Monitoring Network Plan

The Air District's 2007 Ambient Air Monitoring Network Plan is available for 

a 30-day public inspection period. The plan includes proposed changes to 

the air monitoring network during 2008. The public is invited to comment 

on these planned changes during the month of June.

The Future is Green Conference & Expo in Long Beach on September 

14-16, 2008 will showcase clean air and low carbon energy and 

transportation technologies and the environmental and economic benefits 

they bring to our community and planet.

Up to $18 Million in Grants Available from Air District for Projects 

to Reduce Vehicle Emissions

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is accepting applications

under three grant programs to help reduce motor vehicle emissions, the 

largest source of air pollution in the Bay Area. These grants are directed 

toward public agencies and owners of heavy-duty on-road diesel vehicles. 

The three opportunities are:

· The TFCA Regional Fund

 (for a variety of project types, note deadline of June 30, 2008)

· Port Trucks under the Goods Movement Program

· Bicycle Facilities

These grant opportunities are in addition to the Air District’s Climate 

Protection Grant Program.

Air Currents Newsletter

Topics covered in the Fall 2007 issue of the Air Currents newsletter (PDF) 

include the Climate Protection Grant Program, the Carl Moyer Program, the

2007 Spare the Air season, and the Draft Wood Smoke Regulation

workshops.

Download Forms

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Reports

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Hearings

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Reg Changes

BAAQMD is 

recognized as 

one of the Bay 

Area's Best Workplaces 

for Commuters by the EPA 

and Best Workplaces for 

Commuters. 

Launched by the State of 

California, Flex Your Power 

at the Pump is California's 

statewide effort to educate 

and encourage people and 

organizations to use 

gasoline more efficiently - 

saving money and 

contributing to a healthy 

economy and environment. 

Flex Your Power...

About BAAQMD Business Assistance Public Records Request Help
Bay Area Air Quality Management District - BAAQMD http://www.baaqmd.gov/

6/26/2008 10:13 AM 2 of 2

What's New at BAAQMD.gov

Wood Burning News and Information 

· Notice of Public Hearing on proposed Regulation 6, Rule 3: 

 Wood-Burning Devices

· CEQA Draft Environmental Impact Report released on proposed

 Regulation 6, Rule 3: Wood-Burning Devices (posted May 6, 2008)

· Proposed Wood Smoke Rule

· Meeting Notice for Reg. 6, Rule 3: Wood-Burning Devices

· Sign up for E-mail information about Wood Smoke and Wood

 Burning Appliances in the Regulation Changes E-mail list.

· Wood Smoke Rebate Program (closed)

News

· Accepting Goods Movement applications for Class 8 trucks,

 harbor craft and locomotives

· Draft Summary of Results for West Oakland Diesel 

 PM Health Risk Assessment

· Health Risk Assessment for Pacific Steel Casting

· District goes carbon neutral June 1, 2007 (PDF) 

· Final Report Released: “Opportunities for Further GHG Emission

 Reductions for the BAAQMD Stationary Sources”

· Sign Up for E-mail notification of Regulation Changes 

 and Compliance Advisories

· Refinery Flares - updated through April, 2008

Public Workshops and Hearings

· Final Staff Report for Regulation 3: Fees posted May 20, 2008

· Workshops for the TFCA and Goods Movement Program

· Public Hearing on Regulation 3: Fees, April 16, 2008 

 Second public hearing on May 21, 2008

· Green Ports Workgroup Meeting Notice

Permits

Registration Program for Agricultural Diesel Engines

Stipulated Enforcement Program For Portable Diesel Engines

Permit Handbook Revised

Permit Application Public Notices

Title V — Major Facility Review Permits

Disclaimer Credits Comments
‘

HEALTH ADVISORY

For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Fasano

June 26, 2008 415.749.4900 

 

 

 

Air quality in Bay Area continues to be unhealthy due to 

smoke from wildfires 

SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is extending its 

health advisory to residents in the Bay Area due to unhealthy air quality from Northern 

California wildfires. 

Air quality throughout much of the nine-county Bay Area region—comprising Alameda, 

Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern 

Solano and southern Sonoma Counties—is forecast to reach unhealthy levels on 

Thursday, June 26, and Friday, June 27. The Air District has recorded elevated levels of 

particulate matter throughout the Bay Area, but especially in the northern and eastern 

parts of the region, and is advising the public to limit their exposure to the smoky air. 

“For the next few days, we are expecting air quality in the Bay Area to continue to be 

impacted by the northern California wildfires,” said Air District Communications Director 

Lisa Fasano. “We will continue to issue air quality forecasts and advise the public to 

take appropriate precautions.” 

Bay Area residents are advised to: 

• Limit outdoor activities to avoid unnecessary exposure 

• Reduce exposure to smoky air by remaining indoors with windows and doors 

closed 

• Set air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate 

• If you have asthma or other lung disease, make sure you follow your doctor's 

directions about taking your medicines and following your asthma management 

plan. Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen. 

• If you have heart or lung disease, if you are an older adult, or if you have 

children, talk with your doctor about whether and when you should leave the 

area. 

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat and 

irritated sinuses. Elderly persons, children, and individuals with heart or lung disease 

are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra 

precautions to avoid exposure. Persons experiencing severe symptoms should seek 

professional medical advice or treatment. 

-more- 
-page 2 of 2- 

Residents are asked to pay attention to health advisories that may be issued by local 

County Health Officers in the event of a threat to public health due to excessive smoke 

in their communities. The Air District will continue to monitor smoke impacts and issue 

additional advisories as conditions warrant. 

A Spare the Air advisory is not in effect. On Spare the Air days, residents are 

encouraged to reduce driving and curb other activities that produce ground-level ozone. 

The high pollution levels forecast for today are due to wildfires. 

For more information about smoke impacts please visit www.sparetheair.org or the 

CAPCOA website: www.airquality.org/smokeimpact/. 

# # # 

Air Quality Management District (AQMD) http://www.co.el-dorado.ca.us/EMD/apcd/

6/26/2008 10:17 AM 1 of 1

Wildfire Smoke

Health Index

NOA Hotline

for El Dorado 

County

1-888-FYI-4NOA

(1-888-394-4662)

Toll Free

Burn Line:

866-621-5897

Is Today a

Burn Day??

Toll Free

Burn Line: 

866-621-5897

Burn 

Information

Air Quality Management District (AQMD)

Marcella McTaggart, Air Pollution Control Officer

El Dorado County's Air Quality Management District (AQMD) is a Division of the Environmental

Management Department. The AQMD administers the California and Federal Clean Air Acts via

guidelines set forth by State and Federal Agencies. Contact us 530-621-6662 / 530-295-2774 fax

EPA Certified

Woodstoves

Chimney Smoke

Reduction Incentive 

Program

Don't Trash or

BurnYard Waste 

Chip It for Free!

FAQ Air Quality

BEACON [.pdf]

Newsletter - Spring 2006

[.pdf]

Newsletter - Fall 2005 [.pdf]

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has issued a Fact Sheet titled: Beware of

Ozone-generating

Indoor “Air Purifiers” (It describes the potential harm that may result from the use of portable room air cleaners that

intentionally emit ozone.)

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Page last updated: Monday, June 2, 2008 3:53 PM
Feather River AQMD Home Page http://www.fraqmd.org/

6/26/2008 10:18 AM 1 of 2

Home

Contact Us

Area 

Designations

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Programs

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 Feather River Air Quality Management District

 David A. Valler, Jr., Air Pollution Control Officer

 938 14th Street Marysville, CA95901 Phone (530)634-7659 Fax (530)634-7660

 

Local & Health Related 

News

District News Statewide News

· Air Quality Advisory

Issued for the 

Yuba-Sutter Region 

due to poor air 

quality caused by

numerous fires in the

region. More Info

· The Environmental

Protection Agency 

announced new, more 

health-protective 

8-Hour Ozone Standard 

on March 12, 2008. To

see the

announcement, click

here. To see how

the new standard

influences the 

AQI, click here. 

· Burn restrictions

within the Sutter 

Buttes restricted 

zone have been

lifted. Anyone 

with a valid fire 

permit issued by 

the Feather River

Air Quality 

Management 

District may 

resume burning 

within the closed

fire area.

· Wildfire 

Information: CDF 

incidents, 

CAPCOA's Smoke 

Impact 

Management,

OEHHA's Wildfire 

Guide and Safe

Cleanup of Fire 

Ash.

· The burn 

suspension has 

been lifted for 

the CDF/CALFIRE 

 · AGRICULTURAL ENGINE

REGISTRATION 

PROGRAM - The

district recently 

adopted a registration 

program for stationary 

and portable diesel

engines used in

Agricultural 

Operations. (Details)

· The District recently

adopted new, and 

amended existing, 

regulations concerning

agricultural sources in

accordance with 

changes in state law.

(Details) 

· The District is

accepting Carl Moyer 

Program applications

for stationary 

agricultural irrigation 

diesel pumps. 

 · Federal 8-Hour Ozone

State Implementation 

Plan (SIP) Emission

Control Measures 

documents are

available online.

· Grants available for

on-road and 

off-road diesel 

heavy duty 

equipment through

EPA. West Coast

Collaborative 

Diesel Emissions 

Reduction 

Program. Deadline

to apply is July 1st, 

2008. New!!!

· New regulations for

off-road and 

on-road diesel

vehicles on CARB's 

website here.

· Amended IC 

Engine ATCM.

· Beware of

Ozone-Generating 

Indoor "Air 

Purifiers."

· The California 

Almanac of 

Emissions and Air 

Quality - 2006 is

available now. 

· California Air

Resources Board's 

Air Quality and 

Land Use

Handbook
Feather River AQMD Home Page http://www.fraqmd.org/

6/26/2008 10:18 AM 2 of 2

and U.S. National

Forest areas. For 

further 

information 

please call 

530-741-6299

(Burn Info) 

· Bike for your

health and air 

quality. Check

here to see how 

bikeable your

neighborhood is. 

More information

about bicycling. 

· Secondhand

smoke linked to

health risks in 

children & women. 

About Us:

 The Feather River Air Quality Management District is a bi-county District that was formed

in 1991 to administer local, state, and federal air quality management programs for Yuba and

Sutter counties. The District is located in Northern California in the Sacramento Valley Air Basin.

[Population (2000 Census)/ Land Area (square miles): Sutter Co. - 78,930/602 .5 ; Yuba Co. -

60,219/630.7]

Mission Statement:

 The mission of the Feather River Air Quality Management District is to promote and

improve the air quality of Sutter and Yuba counties. This is accomplished through monitoring,

evaluation, education, by implementing control measures to reduce emissions from stationary

sources, permitting and inspection of pollution sources, enforcement of air quality regulations,

and by supporting and implementing measures to reduce emissions from motor vehicles.

Environmental Justice:

 The Feather River Air Quality Management District is committed to environmental

policymaking, community planning, and regulatory enforcement practices that are fair and

equitable to all business owners and residents of Yuba and Sutter counties regardless of age,

culture, ethnicity, gender, race, socioeconomic status, or geographic location in order to

protect against the health impacts of air pollution.
Health Advisory http://www.gbuapcd.org/healthadvisory/index.php

6/26/2008 10:24 AM 1 of 3

GREAT BASIN UNIFIED AIR POLLUTION 

CONTROL DISTRICT

Thu June 26, 2008

10:24:20 am

Air Quality Advisory

The Great Basin Unified Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Advisory

to notify the public of continued unhealthful air quality in Alpine, Mono and Inyo

Counties with localized areas of hazardous air quality conditions due to smoke from the

numerous fires throughout California. 

Current particular matter (PM) levels are at or exceeding the state standards for PM10.

At these levels the air quality is rated UNHEALTHY for Sensitive Groups. Short-term

levels can be considerably higher and can be unhealthy for all people. These conditions

are expected to continue until the fires are extinguished. 

Smoke from wildfires and structure fires contain significant quantities of irritating

chemicals. Residents may experience symptoms during and after being exposed to smoke,

including eye irritation, throat irritation and coughing. People with existing heart and

lung disease, including asthma, may experience heightened symptoms. They should

monitor their health and consult with their health care provider should their symptoms

worsen. Very sensitive individuals may consider leaving the area until air quality

conditions improve. Even healthy people may experience some of these symptoms in

smoky conditions. Seek medical help if you experience symptoms that worsen or become
Health Advisory http://www.gbuapcd.org/healthadvisory/index.php

6/26/2008 10:24 AM 2 of 3

severe. 

Recommendations for Minimizing Smoke Exposure

Stay indoors with windows and doors closed; run air-conditioner on “recirculate”

setting. Minimize the use of swamp coolers. If it becomes too warm indoors,

individuals may consider leaving the area to seek alternative shelter.

1.

When driving make sure to drive with the windows rolled up and the air conditioner

on “recirculate.”

2.

3. Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, during smoky conditions.

4. People who must spend time outdoors should drink plenty of fluids.

Additionally, pet owners should consider bringing their pets indoors out of the unhealthy

air conditions, if possible. This is especially important for older pets. 

Stay tuned to local radio and TV for emergency announcements about air quality. 

Real-time air quality data is available here. 

Issued by: Ted Schade, Air Pollution Control Officer; June 25, 2008

Since smoke levels are ever-changing, the following index is useful in judging the levels near you on a

continual basis.

Good (can see 10 miles or more) - No cautionary statements. 

Moderate (can see 5-10 miles) - Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy

exertion. 

Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (can see 3-5 miles) - People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and

children should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. 

Unhealthy (can see 11⁄2-3 miles) - People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should avoid

prolonged or heavy exertion. Everyone else should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. 

Very Unhealthy (can see 1-11⁄2 mile) - People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should

avoid all physical activity outdoors. Everyone else should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. 

Hazardous (can see 1 mile or less) - Everyone should avoid all physical activity outdoors; people with heart

or lung disease, older adults, and children should remain indoors and keep activity levels low. 

In addition to using the visual guide, residents are encouraged to protect themselves and to seek medical

treatment, if experiencing uncontrolled coughing, wheezing, or choking, or if breathing difficulty does not

subside indoors.

See the air LIVE via our Owens Lake DustCams or via our Mono Lake DustCam. 


Fires and Air http://www.sbcapcd.org/smoke.htm

6/26/2008 10:57 AM 1 of 1

Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District

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Wildfire Smoke, Ash, and Our Health

The 2008 fire season in Santa Barbara County started May 12.

When smoke or ash are in our air, we work with the County Public Health Department to tell people to try to stay inside and

avoid outdoor exercise when the air is bad. It is hard to tell where ash or soot from a wildfire will go, so we also ask everyone

to use common sense.

How to protect yourself and your family from harmful effects of wildfires:

Prepare for fire season. Go to the county’s fire department website http://www.sbcfire.com and learn how to protect

your home and make a Wildfire Action Plan.

If you smell smoke, or see a lot of particles and ash in the air, use common sense. Everyone, especially people with

heart or lung disease (including asthma), older adults, and children, should limit time spent outdoors, and avoid

outdoor exercise.

If outdoor air is bad, try to keep indoor air as clean as possible. Keep windows and doors closed — unless it's

extremely hot outside. If you have an air conditioner, run it with the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean. Don’t

use fireplaces, gas logs, or candles, don’t vacuum, and don’t smoke.

If you have symptoms of lung or heart disease that may be related to smoke exposure, including repeated coughing,

shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain, palpitations, nausea or unusual fatigue or

lightheadedness, call your doctor. 

When smoke is heavy for a prolonged period of time, fine particles can build up indoors even though you may not be

able to see them. If you have heart or lung disease, are an older adult, or have children, talk with your doctor about

whether and when you should leave the area. 

To check readings of particle pollution at the Santa Maria, Lompoc (H Street Station) and Santa Barbara stations, see

monitoring station data page and use pull-down menu to select one of these stations. Hourly readings for PM10 and for PM2.5

(different sizes of particles) are provided. Levels of PM10 averaging higher than 150, or levels of PM2.5 averaging higher than

40 are considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. However, note that even if readings are relatively low at these locations,

smoke and ash could still be affecting areas in the area.

Cleaning up ash, soot, and dust

Do:

Use vacuums with HEPA filters, sweep gently with a broom.

Use damp cloths, spray areas lightly with water.

Take your car to the car wash.

Don't:

Use leafblowers, or do anything that stirs the particles back up into the air.

Hose down areas using large amounts of water (wasting water and sending ash-filled water into our creeks and runoff

systems).

For more information...

Information from the County Public Health Department, including fact sheets on preparing for wildfire, wildfire smoke,

and talking to children about crises.

InciWeb Incident Information System: a national resource for fire incident information, organized by state

Wildland Residents Association, Inc.: fire information for Santa Barbara mountain communities

Santa Barbara County Fire Department: information on Red Flag Alerts, and resources for residents

California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection: information on fires and emergency response.

California Air Pollution Control Officer's Association smoke impacts webpage: health impacts of smoke and protective

measures, and includes links for additional information. 

Home | About Us | Air Quality | Planning | Business | Community | Regional | Help | Contact Us

© 2007 Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District
Events http://www.slocleanair.org/community/topics/smoke%20advisory.asp

6/26/2008 10:56 AM 1 of 2

Air pollution can impact

many things, from plants

to visibility. Find out how it 

affects your health. 

From Pollution 

Prevention to Backyard 

Burning, we have many

programs in place to reduce 

air pollution. 

Test your knowledge...

take our interactive quiz!

Plus...hot links to cool sites 

& ideas for writing your next

school report. 

Smoke Advisory - Update

The San Luis Obispo (SLO) Air Pollution Control

District (APCD) and the Public Health Department

notify residents to take precautions due to smoke

impacts from multiple wildfires occurring in Monterey 

County and northern California. Smoke and ash is

affecting air quality in coastal and northern regions of

SLO County. Until the wildfires are put out or weather

patterns change, smoke and ash is expected to

continue impacting SLO County.

County agencies urge residents to use common sense

and take precautions to reduce the harmful health

effects associated with smoke exposure. When you

can see or smell the smoke in your surroundings, 

officials recommend you avoid strenuous outdoor

activity and remain indoors as much as possible.

Below are a few things to keep in mind during fire

season: 

· If you smell smoke, be cautious and

use common sense to protect your

family’s health. Everyone, especially

people with heart or lung disease

(including asthma), older adults, and

children, should limit time spent

outdoors and avoid outdoor exercise.

· If you have symptoms of lung or

heart disease that may be impacted 

by excessive smoke exposure,

including repeated coughing, 

shortness of breath or difficulty

breathing, wheezing, chest tightness 

or pain, palpitations, nausea or

unusual fatigue or light-headedness, 

call your doctor and seek medical

attention. 

· When it is obvious that there is

smoke in the air, County officials 

continue to recommend that even

healthy adults and children avoid 

strenuous outdoor activity and

remain indoors as much as possible. 

Levels of particulates in the smoke

may be high enough that the 

potential exists for even healthy

people to be affected.

The District will continue to closely monitor smoke

impacts and air quality in San Luis Obispo County.
Welcome to Yolo-Solano AQMD http://www.ysaqmd.org/

6/26/2008 11:04 AM 1 of 1

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Yolo-Solano Air Quality 

Management District

1947 Galileo Ct., Suite 103

Davis, CA 95618

(530) 757-3650 or

(800) 287-3650

FAX (530) 757-3670

Ag Burn Line

(800) 246-3660 or

(530) 757-3660

The Yolo-Solano Air Quality 

Management District is dedicated 

to protecting human health and

property from the harmful effects 

of air pollution.

webmaster@ysaqmd.org

Upcoming Events and Information 

Take Precautions if You See or Smell Smoke :: June 11 - August 31,

2008 

Air Quality Advisory for Smoke Impacts :: June 23 - July 4, 2008 

Opening for Hearing Board Member :: June 30, 2008 

Position Open: Assist/Associate Air Quality Specialist :: July 3, 2008 

Position Open: Senior Air Quality Specialist :: July 3, 2008 

Rule 11.3 Agricultural Engine Registration :: July 9, 2008 

Yolo-Solano AQMD Board of Directors :: July 9, 2008 

Proposed Budget 2008-09 :: September 10, 2008 

Possible Reg. Measures for 2008 :: December 31, 2008 

Carbon Footprint Calculator :: December 31, 2008 

GDF Phase II Enhanced Vapor Recovery Advisories :: April 1, 2009 

Tips for Clean Air

Fuel Economy: 

2008 Fuel Economy Guide

plus tips for increasing vehicle efficiency.

EPA’s Fuel Economy program

Fuel Economy leaders

The Green Vehicle Guide

helps consumers locate the cleanest and 

most fuel efficient vehicle that meets their needs.

1. Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure.

2. Use the car's air conditioner selectively.

Accelerate smoothly and break gradually. It's safer, 

uses less gas and reduces brake wear. 

3.

Properly maintain your vehicle. Replace air and oil 

filters as recommended. 

4.

5. Minimize the amount of time your vehicle idles. 

More Tips to Save Money, Conserve Gas

 CAR CARE QUIZ

Breathe Easier 

Learn about the negative effects of vehicle-produced air 

pollution and the Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) 

that will pay motorists to voluntarily retire their polluting 

vehicles or provide assistance toward the repair of their 

vehicle to pass a smog check. 

In Espanol :www.respiremejor.ca.gov/espanol.htm

Sign Up for Air Alert 

A free service to notify you of air quality forecasts. 

Current Air Quality

Jun 26 N/A

Need more Air Quality info?

visit - www.sparetheair.com

Did You Know?

2 Degrees = 2,000 pounds - Set

the thermostat at 2 degrees 

higher in the summer and lower 

in the winter to save one ton of 

carbon emissions yearly.

Kids Clean Air Art 

Wildfires

Fire and weather updates

When Smoke is in the Air

Smoke & Your Health - FAQ's

Episodic Events

Related Links

Employment Opportunities

Forms & Applications

Report Smoking Vehicles Clean 

Air Plan Update

Directions to District Office

Public Records Request 

Map of District

Climate Change

Spanish

Información de calidad de aire

Diez Primeras Puntas para 

Calidad de Aire

Respire mejor 

Cambie Su Huella De Carbono

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‘

HEALTH ADVISORY

For Immediate Release Contact: Jim Smith

June 27, 2008 415.519.4628 

 

 

Air quality in Bay Area will continue to be unhealthy 

over the weekend 

SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is extending its 

health advisory through the weekend, due to unhealthy air quality from Northern 

California wildfires. 

Air quality throughout much of the nine-county Bay Area region—comprising Alameda, 

Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern 

Solano and southern Sonoma Counties—is forecast to reach unhealthy levels on 

Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29. The Air District has recorded elevated levels 

of particulate matter throughout the Bay Area, but especially in the eastern parts of the 

region and the Santa Clara Valley, and is advising the public to limit their exposure to 

the smoky air. 

“Throughout the weekend, we are expecting air quality in the Bay Area to continue to be 

impacted by the northern California wildfires,” said Air District Communications Director 

Lisa Fasano. “We will continue to issue air quality forecasts and advise the public to 

take appropriate precautions.” 

Bay Area residents are advised to: 

• Limit outdoor activities to avoid unnecessary exposure 

• Reduce exposure to smoky air by remaining indoors with windows and doors 

closed 

• Set air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate 

• If you have asthma or other lung disease, make sure you follow your doctor's 

directions about taking your medicines and following your asthma management 

plan. Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen. 

• If you have heart or lung disease, if you are an older adult, or if you have 

children, talk with your doctor about whether and when you should leave the 

area. 

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat and 

irritated sinuses. Elderly persons, children, and individuals with heart or lung disease 

are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra 

precautions to avoid exposure. Persons experiencing severe symptoms should seek 

professional medical advice or treatment. 

-more- 
-page 2 of 2- 

Residents are asked to pay attention to health advisories that may be issued by local 

County Health Officers in the event of a threat to public health due to excessive smoke 

in their communities. The Air District will continue to monitor smoke impacts and issue 

additional advisories as conditions warrant. 

For more information about smoke impacts please visit www.sparetheair.org or the 

CAPCOA website: www.airquality.org/smokeimpact/. 

# # # 
306 East Gobbi Street 

Ukiah, California 95482 

(707) 463-4354 Fax: 463-5707 

mcaqmd@co.mendocino.ca.us 

www.co.mendocino.ca.us/aqmd

CHRISTOPHER D. BROWN, AICP 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

DONNA ROBERTS NASH 

Program Coordinator 

MENDOCINO COUNTY 

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 

For Immediate Release 

Air Quality Alert Issued 6-27-08 

For all areas of Mendocino County 

(Ukiah) - Smoke accumulation from multiple wildland fires throughout Mendocino County and 

Northern California will continue to remain heavy today throughout the County. Based on recent 

satellite images smoke is covering all parts of the county, including the coast, at this time. 

Overnight temperature inversions are causing heavier smoke concentrations in lower elevations and 

valleys. Smoke remains densest in the Ukiah Valley and other parts of the Southern County. 

Warming and winds may reduce smoke levels in the valleys later in the day, but smoke levels are 

likely to be higher this evening. 

Because of the increased pollutant levels, the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District 

is issuing an Air Quality Alert for today, Friday, June 27, 2008, through 9:00 a.m. Saturday, 

June 28, 2008. 

Readings yesterday afternoon and overnight in Ukiah were in the range classified as “hazardous” by 

the Air Resources Board. 

<Insert health info> 

Over the next few days, smoke is likely to be especially heavy in the Southern Part of the County 

and near any fires. Smoke concentrations in these areas may reach levels considered to be ‘Very 

Unhealthy’ under state and federal air quality standards. Conditions are expected to be worse during 

the evening hours into the early morning as the smoke settles into low lying valleys. 

The Air Quality Management District also would like to remind the public that the countywide burn 

ban issued by the California Department of Forestry (Cal Fire) remains in effect; all outdoor 

burning is currently suspended. 

27-June, 2008 9:40 AM 

About the District – The Mendocino County Air Quality Management District is one of 35 Air Districts in California 

and was created by the state legislature in 1971. The mission of the Mendocino County Air Quality Management 

District is to protect and manage air quality, an essential public resource upon which the health of the community 

depends. The District’s Executive Officer is Christopher D. Brown, AICP 

C^AQAlert06-23-08 









‘

HEALTH ADVISORY

For Immediate Release Contact: Jim Smith

June 27, 2008 415.519.4628 

 

 

Air quality in Bay Area will continue to be unhealthy 

over the weekend 

SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is extending its 

health advisory through the weekend, due to unhealthy air quality from Northern 

California wildfires. 

Air quality throughout much of the nine-county Bay Area region—comprising Alameda, 

Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern 

Solano and southern Sonoma Counties—is forecast to reach unhealthy levels on 

Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29. The Air District has recorded elevated levels 

of particulate matter throughout the Bay Area, but especially in the eastern parts of the 

region and the Santa Clara Valley, and is advising the public to limit their exposure to 

the smoky air. 

“Throughout the weekend, we are expecting air quality in the Bay Area to continue to be 

impacted by the northern California wildfires,” said Air District Communications Director 

Lisa Fasano. “We will continue to issue air quality forecasts and advise the public to 

take appropriate precautions.” 

Bay Area residents are advised to: 

• Limit outdoor activities to avoid unnecessary exposure 

• Reduce exposure to smoky air by remaining indoors with windows and doors 

closed 

• Set air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate 

• If you have asthma or other lung disease, make sure you follow your doctor's 

directions about taking your medicines and following your asthma management 

plan. Call your doctor if your symptoms worsen. 

• If you have heart or lung disease, if you are an older adult, or if you have 

children, talk with your doctor about whether and when you should leave the 

area. 

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat and 

irritated sinuses. Elderly persons, children, and individuals with heart or lung disease 

are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra 

precautions to avoid exposure. Persons experiencing severe symptoms should seek 

professional medical advice or treatment. 

-more- 
-page 2 of 2- 

Residents are asked to pay attention to health advisories that may be issued by local 

County Health Officers in the event of a threat to public health due to excessive smoke 

in their communities. The Air District will continue to monitor smoke impacts and issue 

additional advisories as conditions warrant. 

For more information about smoke impacts please visit www.sparetheair.org or the 

CAPCOA website: www.airquality.org/smokeimpact/. 

# # # 
 

PRESS RELEASE 

June 29, 2008 

NOTICE AIR QUALITY IMPROVEMENT FOR VALLEY AREAS 

The Butte County Air Quality Management District is issuing this Notice of Air Quality Improvement to notify 

the public that the high air pollution levels seen throughout this past week have today fallen below advisory 

levels in the valley portion of the county. Although there may continue to be visible haze in Butte County as a 

result of wildfires burning, the recommended activity restrictions issued earlier this week are no longer in effect 

for the valley areas. However, the air quality alert continues for the foothills due to continued unhealthful air 

quality. 

Yesterday Butte County exceeded the federal health-based average 24-hour Ambient Air Quality Standard of 35 

micro grams per cubic meter (ug/m3) for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The 24-hour average in Chico 

yesterday was 65 ug/m3 which is equal to an Air Quality Index of 150. 

Today the Air Quality Index in Chico is forecast to reach 83 At this level the air quality is rated 

MODERATE for all people. 

The 24-hour average yesterday at the Paradise Airport monitor was 212 ug/m3 which is equal to an Air Quality 

Index of 262. 

Today the Air Quality Index in Paradise is forecast to reach 215. At this level the air quality is rated VERY 

UNHEALTHY for all people. 

Unhealthful air quality conditions are expected to continue in localized areas (foothills) until the fires are 

extinguished. All recommendations for minimizing smoke exposure continue to be in effect in smoky areas of 

the county. 

Recommendations for Minimizing Smoke Exposure

9 Stay indoors with windows and doors closed; run air-conditioner on “recirculate” setting. Do not run swamp 

coolers. If it becomes too warm indoors, individuals may consider leaving the area to seek alternative 

shelter. 

9 Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, or children’s sporting events during smoky 

conditions. 

9 People in a “high risk” group or those who cannot find adequate shelter from the smoke outside may need to 

move to an emergency shelter located out of smoky areas. 

9 People who must spend time outdoors should drink plenty of fluids. 

9 Masks that filter out 95 percent of particles measuring 0.3 micrometers diameter or larger (known as “N95” 

or “R95” respirators/masks) can be effective if properly fitted to the wearer’s face. These can be found at 

large hardware and home stores. HEPA filter masks are also recommended. Respirators are not intended to 

be worn for exercise use. 

2525 Dominic Drive, Suite J 

Chico, CA 95928 

(530) 891-2882 

(530) 891-2878 Fax

W. James Wagoner 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

Robert McLaughlin 

Asst. Air Pollution Control Officer 
 

Information will be updated and posted to the District Web site as available at WWW.BCAQMD.ORG and 

recorded on the Residential Burn HOTLINE at 896-2537 or toll free at 866-240-0859. The District office 

number is 891-2882 or 888-891-2882. Following is the Air Quality Index table for Particle Pollution.

Air Quality Index (AQI): Particle Pollution 

Index 

Values 

Levels 

of Health 

Concern 

Cautionary Statements 

0-50 Good None 

51-100* Moderate 

Unusually sensitive people 

should consider reducing 

prolonged or heavy exertion. 

101-150 Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should reduce prolonged 

or heavy exertion. 

151-200 Unhealthy 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should avoid prolonged 

or heavy exertion. Everyone else 

should reduce prolonged or 

heavy exertion. 

201-300 Very Unhealthy 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should avoid all physical 

activity outdoors. Everyone else 

should avoid prolonged or heavy 

exertion. 

301-500 Hazardous 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should remain indoors 

and keep activity levels low. 

Everyone else should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

### 
‘

NEWS 

For Immediate Release Contact: Ralph Borrmann

June 30, 2008 415.479.4900 

 

 

 

Air District Health Advisory Lifted 

Air quality forecast to be in the good – moderate range through the July 4th weekend 

SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is lifting the health 

advisory which was in place for five days last week, due to high particulate levels from 

the Northern California wildfires. 

Air quality throughout much of the nine-county Bay Area region—comprising Alameda, 

Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern 

Solano and southern Sonoma Counties—is forecast to be in the good to moderate 

range through the coming July 4th weekend. The Air District’s pollutant monitoring 

network now shows significantly decreased pollution levels throughout the Bay Area. 

Particulate levels are in the healthy range. 

“Although the wild fires continue in areas of Northern California and the Central Coast, 

onshore winds will push much of the smoke away from the Bay Area for the time being,” 

said Air District Managing Meteorologist Dick Duker. “We expect that the Bay Area will 

continue to avoid unhealthy particulate levels due to the wildfire smoke for the next few 

days. “ 

The Air District will continue to monitor smoke impacts and issue additional updates as 

conditions warrant. 

For more information about smoke impacts please visit www.sparetheair.org or the 

CAPCOA website: www.airquality.org/smokeimpact/. 

# # # 
 

PRESS RELEASE 

June 30, 2008 

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY UPDATE 

The Butte County Air Quality Management District is issuing this Air Quality Advisory update to notify the 

public of continued poor air quality in Butte County due to smoke from the numerous fires in Butte, Tehama, 

Shasta and surrounding counties. There continues to be visible haze in the valley areas of Butte County and 

times of unhealthful air while the air quality for the foothills continues to be very unhealthy and has reached 

hazardous levels. 

Yesterday Butte County exceeded the federal health-based average 24-hour Ambient Air Quality Standard of 35 

micro grams per cubic meter (ug/m3) for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). The 24-hour average in Chico 

yesterday was 54 ug/m3 which is equal to an Air Quality Index of 128. 

Today the Air Quality Index in Chico is forecast to reach 140 At this level the air quality is rated 

UNHEALTHY for sensitive people. 

The 24-hour average yesterday at the Paradise Airport monitor was 281 ug/m3 which is equal to an Air Quality 

Index of 331. 

Today the Air Quality Index in Paradise is forecast to reach 330. At this level the air quality is rated 

HAZARDOUS for all people. 

Unhealthful air quality conditions are expected to continue in localized areas and particularly the foothills until 

the fires are extinguished. All recommendations for minimizing smoke exposure continue to be in effect in 

smoky areas of the county. 

Recommendations for Minimizing Smoke Exposure

9 Stay indoors with windows and doors closed; run air-conditioner on “recirculate” setting. Do not run swamp 

coolers. If it becomes too warm indoors, individuals may consider leaving the area to seek alternative 

shelter. 

9 Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, or children’s sporting events during smoky 

conditions. 

9 People in a “high risk” group or those who cannot find adequate shelter from the smoke outside may need to 

move to an emergency shelter located out of smoky areas. 

9 People who must spend time outdoors should drink plenty of fluids. 

9 Masks that filter out 95 percent of particles measuring 0.3 micrometers diameter or larger (known as “N95” 

or “R95” respirators/masks) can be effective if properly fitted to the wearer’s face. These can be found at 

large hardware and home stores. HEPA filter masks are also recommended. Respirators are not intended to 

be worn for exercise use. 

2525 Dominic Drive, Suite J 

Chico, CA 95928 

(530) 891-2882 

(530) 891-2878 Fax

W. James Wagoner 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

Robert McLaughlin 

Asst. Air Pollution Control Officer 
 

Information will be updated and posted to the District Web site as available at WWW.BCAQMD.ORG and 

recorded on the Residential Burn HOTLINE at 896-2537 or toll free at 866-240-0859. The District office 

number is 891-2882 or 888-891-2882. Following is the Air Quality Index table for Particle Pollution.

Air Quality Index (AQI): Particle Pollution 

Index 

Values 

Levels 

of Health 

Concern 

Cautionary Statements 

0-50 Good None 

51-100* Moderate 

Unusually sensitive people 

should consider reducing 

prolonged or heavy exertion. 

101-150 Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should reduce prolonged 

or heavy exertion. 

151-200 Unhealthy 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should avoid prolonged 

or heavy exertion. Everyone else 

should reduce prolonged or 

heavy exertion. 

201-300 Very Unhealthy 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should avoid all physical 

activity outdoors. Everyone else 

should avoid prolonged or heavy 

exertion. 

301-500 Hazardous 

People with heart or lung 

disease, older adults, and 

children should remain indoors 

and keep activity levels low. 

Everyone else should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

### 

 We Deliver News to the Sierra

Regional

Air Quality Advisory Eastern Nevada County

Valid Wednesday, July 2, 2008 through Sunday, July 6,

2008

Published on Jul 2, 2008 - 1:36:14 PM

Email this article Printer friendly page

By: Joe Fish, Northern Sierra Air Quality Management

District

Yesterday's air quality (7-1-08) was in the good range until

3:00pm. Then the numbers shot up into the unhealthy

range. With just a little wind shift, air quality can improve

or degrade within a rather short period of time. These

conditions will persist until the wildland fires decrease in

size and intensity. So, keeping that in mind, conditions will

most likely vary from moderate to unhealthy over short to

extended periods of time as the plume of smoke from the

wildland fire wafts back and forth due to varying wind

patterns.

All Individuals Should Continue To Avoid Or Limit All

Physical Activity Outdoors, Especially Sensitive

Individuals

Until the present conditions improve, individuals should

consider taking the following actions:

Healthy people should delay strenuous exercise,

particularly when they can smell smoke.

Children and elderly people should consider avoiding

outdoor activities, particularly prolonged outdoor exertion.

People with health-related illnesses, particularly

respiratory problems, should remain indoors.

Asthmatics should follow their asthma management plan.

Scientific studies have linked fine particulate matter

(smoke) with significant health problems, including

premature death, respiratory related hospital admissions,

aggravated asthma, acute respiratory symptoms (including

severe chest pain, gasping, and aggravated coughing),

chronic bronchitis, decreased lung function, and work and

school absences.

Sensitive groups and individuals are the elderly, children,

asthmatics, and adults with pre-existing heart and lung

disease, pregnant women, and athletes. The Northern

Sierra Air Quality Management District advises that people

in these sensitive categories limit prolonged outdoor

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CLAIM-GV: Let's Stop

Wasting Time on IMM

Project

Sierra Lobby Day at the

Capitol June 24

Peace and Prosperity

Procession Party through

Downtown Grass Valley

July 2

Six Local Women Will

Read Their Work

Saturday at Women's

Writing Salon

North Lake Tahoe Hosts

Fireworks Events &

Celebrations July 2-5

Barry Hance Memorial

Award given in Yosemite

National Park

Glacier Point Road

Rehabilitation Project to

Begin in Yosemite

National Park

Lance Armstrong, Strong

Field Compete in 49th

Annual Nevada City

Bicycle Classic

Supervisor Ed Scofield to

Host Workshop on

Proposed Higgins

Air Quality Advisory Eastern Nevada County http://yubanet.com/regional/Air-Quality-Advisory-Eastern-Nevada-Count...

6/19/2009 1:53 PM 1 of 3
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Visibility Range Health Category Cautionary Statements

10+ miles Good None

5 – 10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy

exertion.

Residents | Business | Visitors | Online Services | Board of Supervisors | Emergency | County Government

Home > News > 2008 > July > Air Quality Update 7-2-08 Today is June 19, 2009

Air Quality Update for July 2, 2008

July 02, 2008

Air Quality Advisory through July 2, 2008

Placer County, CA July 2, 2008 – Smoky conditions are widespread in Placer County from the valley floor to the Lake Tahoe

area. Smoke continues to impact Placer County from fires burning in Placer County and throughout Northern California.

Average concentrations of fine particulates continue to fluctuate throughout the day in certain areas from very unhealthy to fair

conditions.

Due to ongoing smoke generated from fires, Tom Christofk, Placer County Air Pollution Control Officer and Dr. Richard

Burton, MD, Placer County’s Health Officer, are issuing an air quality advisory. If weather conditions remain the same

throughout Wednesday, the Auburn, Roseville and Colfax areas should continue to see very high concentrations of PM in the

morning with some improvements in the afternoon hours.

Smoke continues to impact our area and is forecast to continue as long as the wildfires continue to burn and weather

conditions do not significantly change, which at this time appears to be at least until Wednesday. Residents are reminded to

take common-sense precautions as Placer County will continue to be affected. If visibility is poor in your area, then you should

strongly consider postponing outdoor activities until later in the day or when conditions improve.

Scientific studies have linked the fine particles associated with smoke with a variety of significant health problems. Symptoms

include eye irritation, throat irritation, and coughing. People with existing heart and lung disease, including asthma, may

experience heightened symptoms. They should monitor their health and consult with their health care provider should their

symptoms worsen. Even healthy people may experience some of these symptoms in smoky conditions. Seek medical help if

you experience symptoms that worsen or become severe.

Dr. Burton and Christofk urge residents to keep in mind the following recommendations when they are in smoky conditions:

Healthy people should delay outdoor strenuous exercise.

Children and elderly people should avoid outdoor activities, particularly prolonged outdoor exertion.

People with specific illnesses, particularly respiratory problems, should remain indoors.

Using paper mask filters, which are not capable of filtering extra-fine smoke particles, and which restrict airflow, is not

recommended.

Stay inside with doors and windows shut. Use the recycle or recirculate mode on the air conditioner in your home or

car. Avoid cooking and vacuuming, which can increase pollutants indoors.

Asthmatics should follow their asthma-management plans.

Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.

This is important for not only people with chronic lung or heart disease, but also for individuals who have not been

previously diagnosed with such illnesses. Smoke can “unmask” or produce symptom of such diseases.

Keep airways moist by drinking lots of water. Breathing through a warm, wet washcloth can also help relieve dryness.

Use the following index to assess the air quality based on the visibility in a given area:

Face away from the sun. Determine visibility range by looking for targets that are at known distances (miles).

The visible range is the point where even high-contrast objects disappear.

After determining visibility in miles use the following Wildfire Smoke Visibility Index to assess air quality.

Air Quality Update for July 2, 2008 http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/Air%20Quality%20Update%...

6/19/2009 1:48 PM 1 of 2
3 – 5 miles Unhealthy for

Sensitive Groups

Sensitive people should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

1.5 – 2.5 miles Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Everyone

else should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

1 – 1.25 miles Very Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid all physical activity outdoors. Everyone

else should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

<0.75 miles Hazardous Sensitive people should remain indoors and keep activity levels low.

Everyone else should avoid all physical activity outdoors.

Information will be updated and posted to the District Web site as available at www.placer.ca.gov. For general air quality

information go to www.sparetheair.com.

Following is the Air Quality Index table for Particle Pollution for reference.

Air Quality Index (AQI)

Index

Values

Levels

of Health

Concern

Cautionary Statements

0-50 Good None

51-100* Moderate

Unusually sensitive people should

consider reducing prolonged or

heavy exertion.

101-150 Unhealthy for Sensitive

Groups

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

reduce prolonged or heavy

exertion.

151-200 Unhealthy

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

Everyone else should reduce

prolonged or heavy exertion.

201-300 Very Unhealthy

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

avoid all physical activity outdoors.

Everyone else should avoid

prolonged or heavy exertion.

301-500 Hazardous

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

remain indoors and keep activity

levels low. Everyone else should

avoid all physical activity outdoors.

Home | Residents | Business | Visitors | Online Services | Board of Supervisors | Emergency |

County Government |

© 2006 County of Placer, California | Legal Notices | Citizens Guide | Contact Us | Sign up for County e-News

Air Quality Update for July 2, 2008 http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/Air%20Quality%20Update%...

6/19/2009 1:48 PM 2 of 2
CHRISTOPHER D. BROWN, AICP 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

CARMEL ANGELO 

MENDOCINO COUNTY Director 

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 

AND 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

For Immediate Release 

Public Health Officer and Air Quality Alert Issued 

7-3-08 

Release 11.0 

For all areas of Mendocino County 

(Ukiah) - Smoke accumulation from multiple wildland fires throughout Mendocino County 

and Northern California will continue to remain heavy in parts of the County today. The 

Ukiah area reached “unhealthy” levels this morning, but over nights readings were int he 

“good” range. The wide fluctuations in local air quality are likely to continue at though 

Saturday. Satellite imagery this morning shows clear skies and some smoke accumulation 

in the inland valleys, especially in the North County. Overnight temperature inversions will 

continue to cause heavier smoke concentrations in lower elevations and valleys. Warming 

and winds are likely to reduce smoke levels later in the day, but smoke levels are likely to 

rebound later in the evening hours. As the winds shift throughout the day, smoke may 

move into areas where it has not previously been present. 

Because of the increased pollutant levels and local areas of “unhealthy”, levels of air 

pollution, the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District is issuing an Air Quality 

Alert for today, Thursday, July 3, 2008, through 9:00 a.m. Friday, July 4, 2008. 

Winds are expected to be out of the northwest today and smoke will generally travel to the 

southeast from any fires; however terrain and local winds will also impact smoke 

dispersion. 

It is advised that all residents stay indoors as much as possible when smoke is present. 

Close all doors and windows, and turn the air conditioner to recirculation mode. Ceiling 

1
San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District – News Release

News Release

For immediate release

July 2, 2008

>>City, business and assignment 

editors<<

Central region

Jaime Holt

(559) 230-5850

Northern Region

Anthony Presto

(209) 557-6472

Southern region

Brenda Turner

(661) 326-6981

Spanish-language contact

Claudia Encinas

(559) 230-5851

Air officials urge fireworks restraint

Ailing air quality will further deteriorate with fireworks use

Because of the continuing threat of unhealthy air quality related to several California wildfires, Valley Air 

District officials are strongly encouraging residents to refrain from using fireworks July 4.

“On a typical year, fireworks account for localized air pollution on July 4. But this year, we have serious airquality issues because of statewide wildfires, which fireworks will only worsen,” said Seyed Sadredin, the 

Air District’s executive director and air pollution control officer. “We are asking Valley residents to please 

consider your health and that of your neighbors, and to not opt to light fireworks this year.”

Fireworks produce dangerous particulate matter (PM), tiny particles of soot, ash, droplets of liquid and other 

material. PM10 – particles 10 microns and smaller – can be harmful to people with respiratory conditions, 

and older adults and children are also more susceptible to consequences of high particle levels. And 

smaller particles – 2.5 microns and smaller – can invade the bloodstream and have serious consequences 

for people with heart or lung conditions. Some fireworks also attribute their bright colors to toxic materials 

that may not be easily diffused.

Last week, ongoing wildfires throughout the state resulted in unhealthy and very unhealthy levels of PM and 

ozone for days on end, Valley-wide. Changing weather patterns could bring smoke back into the Valley, 

which combined with firework emissions, would cause serious health issues.

“While we never encourage the use of fireworks because of their negative effect on air quality, this year, it is 

even more important to refrain from fireworks activity. Our collective health depends on it,” said Sadredin.

For current air-quality forecasts by county, visit www.valleyair.org or call 1-800 SMOG INFO (766-4463).

The Valley Air District covers eight counties including San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, 

Kings, Tulare and San Joaquin Valley air basin portions of Kern. For assistance, contact the nearest 

District office in Modesto at (209) 557-6440, Fresno (559) 230-6000 or Bakersfield (661) 326-6900.
2

fans and portable fans should be used, as well as a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) 

filter when available. The Public Health Officer is not recommending the use of masks. It 

is recommended that masks only be used if you can see heavy ash falling. Zero benefit is 

provided by masks that are not of N-95 quality or higher or properly fitted. For those with 

chronic lung problems, masks may actually exacerbate conditions. 

In areas of heavy smoke individuals with emphysema, asthma and cardiovascular disease 

are recommended to move to a cleaner environment, if they have the option to do so, due 

to the unhealthy air quality. If leaving is not an option, they should limit outdoor activities. 

Anyone using daily bronchodilator inhalers, oxygen, or steroids should not be outside or 

attend school unless absolutely necessary. Nighttime conditions are generally worse, as 

are low laying valleys such as Boonville, Willits and Ukiah. All patients with lung or 

cardiovascular disease should check and make sure they have 5-7 days of medication on 

hand. 

The closing of schools is not recommended at this time. The Public Health Officer has 

issued a restriction of outdoor activities to all school districts (when heavy smoke is 

present). When smoke is heavy children should be driven to school whenever possible. 

Should a child have to walk to school, it is advised that they walk, do NOT run or ride a 

bike. 

In areas where visibility is less than one mile, it is strongly advised that all public athletic 

events, including practices, be cancelled. 

Weather conditions continue to change. Areas that currently read in the “Good” to 

“Moderate” range may worsen at any time. Please use your personal judgment and 

“common sense” when evaluating your environment in relation to your outdoor activities. 

Over the next few days, smoke is likely to be especially heavy in the inland valleys and 

near any fires. Conditions are expected to be worse during the evening hours into the 

early morning as the smoke settles into low lying valleys. 
3

The Air Quality Management District also would like to remind the public that the 

countywide burn ban issued by the California Department of Forestry (Cal Fire) remains in 

effect; all outdoor burning is currently suspended. 

(insert table from yesterday) 

# # # 
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Home > News > 2008 > July > AirQualityUpdate Today is June 19, 2009

Air Quality Update

July 05, 2008

Advisory for July 3 through July 6, 2008

Placer County, CA July 3, 2008 – Continued smoky conditions are widespread in Placer County

from the valley floor to the Lake Tahoe area. Smoke continues to impact Placer County from fires

burning in the county and throughout Northern California. Average concentrations of fine

particulates (PM2.5) continue to fluctuate throughout the day in certain areas, ranging from

hazardous to fair conditions.

Due to ongoing smoke generated from fires, Tom Christofk, Placer County Air Pollution Control

Officer and Dr. Richard Burton, MD, Placer County’s Health Officer, are issuing this updated air

quality advisory. If the current weather conditions remain through Sunday, as predicted, the County

can expect long periods of poor air quality with possible improvements in some areas. Forecasted

wind gusts up to 20 miles per hour may also increase smoke formation from the local Yuba and

American River Complex Fires and directly impact local areas downwind from these fires.

Residents are reminded to take common-sense precautions as Placer County will continue to be

affected. If visibility is poor in your area, then you should strongly consider postponing outdoor

activities until later in the day or when conditions improve. On the other hand, areas such as Colfax

and Auburn have seen moments of improvement, especially in the afternoon hours and these times

may be the best opportunities to conduct outdoor activities.

Particulate matter, found within smoke from fire, contains a multitude of particles, such as wood tar

vapors and toxic gases. Other pollutants found in smoke are carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and

hydrocarbons. Scientific studies have linked the fine particles associated with smoke with a variety of

significant health problems. Symptoms include eye irritation, throat irritation, and coughing. People

with existing heart and lung disease, including asthma, may experience heightened symptoms. They

should monitor their health and consult with their health care provider should their symptoms

worsen. Even healthy people may experience some of these symptoms in smoky conditions. Seek

medical help if you experience symptoms that worsen or become severe.

Dr. Burton and Christofk urge residents to keep in mind the following recommendations when

they are in smoky conditions:

Healthy people should delay outdoor strenuous exercise.

Children and elderly people should avoid outdoor activities, particularly prolonged outdoor

exertion.

People with specific illnesses, particularly respiratory problems, should remain indoors.

Using paper mask filters, which are not capable of filtering extra-fine smoke particles, and which

restrict airflow, is not recommended.

Stay inside with doors and windows shut. Use the recycle or recirculate mode on the air conditioner

in your home or car. Avoid cooking and vacuuming, which can increase pollutants indoors.

Asthmatics should follow their asthma-management plans.

Air Quality Update http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/AirQualityUpdate.aspx

6/19/2009 1:49 PM 1 of 4
Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or

severe fatigue. This is important for not only people with chronic lung or heart disease, but also for

individuals who have not been previously diagnosed with such illnesses. Smoke can “unmask” or

produce symptom of such diseases.

Keep airways moist by drinking lots of water. Room humidifiers might also provide some comfort.

Use the following index to assess the air quality based on the visibility in a given area:

Face away from the sun. Determine visibility range by looking for targets that are at known

distances (miles).

The visible range is the point where even high-contrast objects disappear.

After determining visibility in miles use the following Wildfire Smoke Visibility Index to assess

air quality.

Visibility Range Health Category Cautionary Statements

10+ miles Good None

5 – 10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy

exertion.

3 – 5 miles Unhealthy for

Sensitive Groups

Sensitive people should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

1.5 – 2.5 miles Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Everyone else

should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

1 – 1.25 miles Very Unhealthy Very Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid all physical activity outdoors

Everyone else should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

<0.75 miles Hazardous Sensitive people should remain indoors and keep activity levels low.

Everyone else should avoid all physical activity outdoors.

Information will be updated and posted to the District Web site as available at

www.placer.ca.gov. For general air quality information go to www.sparetheair.com. The Spare the

Air website is a great site to monitor current air quality values for ozone and PM2.5. Smoke

formation generates an increase in PM2.5 concentrations and the higher the concentration, the higher

the Air Quality Index value. Before conducting any outdoor activities it would be prudent to visit this

sight to review the Index and forecast for your area. If information is not provided for your general

area, use the visibility index provided above to determine air quality.

Following is the Air Quality Index table for Particle Pollution for reference.

Air Quality Update http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/AirQualityUpdate.aspx

6/19/2009 1:49 PM 2 of 4
Air Quality Index (AQI)

Index

Values

Levels

of Health

Concern

Cautionary Statements

0-50 Good None

51-100* Moderate Unusually sensitive people

should consider reducing

prolonged or heavy

exertion.

101-150 Unhealthy for

Sensitive Groups

People with heart or lung

disease, older adults, and

children should reduce

prolonged or heavy

exertion.

151-200 Unhealthy People with heart or lung

disease, older adults, and

children should avoid

prolonged or heavy

exertion. Everyone else

should reduce prolonged or

heavy exertion.

201-300 Very Unhealthy People with heart or lung

disease, older adults, and

children should avoid all

physical activity outdoors.

Everyone else should avoid

prolonged or heavy

exertion.

301-500 Hazardous People with heart or lung

disease, older adults, and

children should remain

indoors and keep activity

levels low. Everyone else

should avoid all physical

activity outdoors.

Air Quality Update http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/AirQualityUpdate.aspx

6/19/2009 1:49 PM 3 of 4
 We Deliver News to the Sierra

Regional

Nevada County: Air Quality Advisory for week

of July 7 - 11

Published on Jul 7, 2008 - 9:12:01 AM

Email this article Printer friendly page

By: Joe Fish, Northern Sierra Air Quality Management

District

This Air Quality Advisory is valid for: Monday, July 7, 2008

through Friday, July 11, 2008

Smoke levels will continue to vary from moderate to very

unhealthy levels over short to extended periods of time as

varying wind patterns impact the smoke from numerous

wildfires throughout Northern California. In addition to the

smoke impacts, ozone levels will also vary from healthy to

unhealthy for sensitive groups. The highest levels of ozone

are more likely during the late afternoon and evening

hours. Health risks from exposure to both smoke and

ozone are high because ozone irritates the lungs and

smoke compounds the problem. The Air District is issuing

the following recommendation:

ALL INDIVIDUALS SHOULD CONTINUE TO AVOID OR

LIMIT ALL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY OUTDOORS.

The Air District is also recommending that the intensity

level of all outdoor sporting activities be reduced

considerably. We have all had a very prolonged exposure

to some very high levels of smoke pollution, so there may

be some residual respiratory effects that might surface as a

result of high levels of exertion. As a general rule of thumb

consider this: If you see smoke and smell smoke, you are

most likely breathing unhealthly levels of particulates. The

more smoke you see and smell, the higher the unhealthy

levels of particulates.

Scientific studies have linked fine particulate matter

(smoke) with significant health problems, including

premature death, respiratory related hospital admissions,

aggravated asthma, acute respiratory symptoms (including

severe chest pain, gasping, and aggravated coughing),

chronic bronchitis, decreased lung function, and work and

school absences. Exposure to unhealthful ozone levels can

result in chest pain, coughing, nausea, shortness of breath,

throat irritation, headaches, congestion and chest

discomfort. It may also worsen bronchitis, heart disease,

emphysema, and asthma.

Sensitive groups and individuals (those most at risk from

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Sierra Lobby Day at the

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Peace and Prosperity

Procession Party through

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July 2

Six Local Women Will

Read Their Work

Saturday at Women's

Writing Salon

North Lake Tahoe Hosts

Fireworks Events &

Celebrations July 2-5

Barry Hance Memorial

Award given in Yosemite

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6/19/2009 1:52 PM 1 of 3
exposure to ground level ozone) are the elderly, children,

asthmatics, and adults with pre-existing heart and lung

disease, pregnant women, and athletes.

For current ozone and PM2.5 conditions or to learn more

about air pollution go to http://www.sparetheair.com

(Please be aware that we have been unable to get the

Grass Valley PM2.5 data onto any websites. It is a technical

hurdle that we have yet to overcome. If you need to know

the most current Grass Valley PM2.5 values, then you may

call our Grass Valley office. Thank you for your patience.)

Recommendations for Minimizing Smoke Exposure:

- Stay indoors with windows and doors closed; run

air-conditioner on "re-circulate" setting. Do not run swamp

coolers or whole house fans. It is recommended that heat

sensitive individuals use fans for cooling or they may

consider leaving the area;

- Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise,

during smoky conditions;

- People in a "high risk" group or those who cannot find

adequate shelter from the smoke outside may need to

move to an emergency shelter; and,

- Disposable particulate respirators found at hardware

stores can be effective at reducing exposure to smoke

particles as long as they seal closely to the wearer's face.

Look for respirators that have two straps and have the

words "NIOSH" and either "P100" or "N95" printed on the

filter material. Warning: particulate respirators will not

provide complete protection in very smoky conditions. It

should also be noted that there is some controversy

surrounding the use of particulate respirators because of

the many variables that may hinder their proper use.

Additionally, be aware that small pets in areas with

unhealthy air should be brought indoors if possible.

In the interest of fostering civil and issue-oriented

discourse, YubaNet does not publish reader comments

identified by anonymous Internet "handles" (fake user ID

names like "farfromthinkin"). Your full and real name will

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6/19/2009 1:52 PM 2 of 3
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Home > News > 2008 > July > AirQuality7-7-08 Today is June 19, 2009

Air Quality Advisory for Mon., July 7, through Thurs., July 10,

2008

July 07, 2008

Advisory for Monday July 7 through Thursday, July 10, 2008

Placer County, CA July 7, 2008 – Widespread smoky conditions continue to affect Placer County from the valley floor to the

Lake Tahoe area from fires inside and outside of the county. Average concentrations of fine particulates (PM2.5) continue to

fluctuate throughout the day, with conditions ranging from hazardous to moderate.

With the continued smoke episode, Tom Christofk, Placer County Air Pollution Control Officer and Dr. Richard Burton, MD,

Placer County’s Health Officer, are issuing this updated air quality advisory for July 7th through July 10th. The weather forecast

for this week with the strong high pressure, very warm temperatures and little wind, combined with smoke, make for very

stagnant conditions.

With cooler temperatures in the early morning, smoke tends to move down the western slope becoming more concentrated in

foothill locations. In the afternoon hours and early evening, conditions appear to improve in the foothills as smoke rises into

higher elevations, including the Lake Tahoe area.

The public is reminded to take common-sense precautions as Placer County will continue to be affected by very unhealthy or

even hazardous air quality at times. If visibility is poor in your area, then you should strongly consider postponing outdoor

activities until later in the day or when conditions improve.

Particulate matter, found within smoke from fire, contains a multitude of particles, such as wood tar vapors and toxic gases.

Other pollutants found in smoke are carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Scientific studies have linked the

fine particles associated with smoke with a variety of significant health problems. Symptoms include eye irritation, throat

irritation, and coughing. People with existing heart and lung disease, including asthma, may experience heightened symptoms.

They should monitor their health and consult with their health care provider should their symptoms worsen. Even healthy

people may experience some of these symptoms in smoky conditions. Seek medical help if you experience symptoms that

worsen or become severe.

Dr. Burton and Christofk urge residents to keep in mind the following recommendations when they are in smoky conditions:

Healthy people should delay outdoor strenuous exercise.

Children and elderly people should avoid outdoor activities, particularly prolonged outdoor exertion.

People with specific illnesses, particularly respiratory problems, should remain indoors.

Using paper mask filters, which are not capable of filtering extra-fine smoke particles, and which restrict airflow, is not

recommended.

Stay inside with doors and windows shut. Use the recycle or recirculate mode on the air conditioner in your home or

car. Avoid cooking and vacuuming, which can increase pollutants indoors.

Asthmatics should follow their asthma-management plans.

Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.

This is important for not only people with chronic lung or heart disease, but also for individuals who have not been

previously diagnosed with such illnesses. Smoke can “unmask” or produce symptom of such diseases.

Keep airways moist by drinking lots of water. Room humidifiers might also provide some comfort.

Use the following index to assess the air quality based on the visibility in a given area:

Face away from the sun. Determine visibility range by looking for targets that are at known distances (miles).

The visible range is the point where even high-contrast objects disappear.

Air Quality Advisory for Mon., July 7, through Thurs., July 10, 2008 http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/AirQuality7-7-08.aspx

6/19/2009 1:50 PM 1 of 2
Visibility Range Health Category Cautionary Statements

10+ miles Good None

5 – 10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy

exertion.

3 – 5 miles Unhealthy for

Sensitive Groups

Sensitive people should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

1.5 – 2.5 miles Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion. Everyone

else should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion.

1 – 1.25 miles Very Unhealthy Very Unhealthy Sensitive people should avoid all physical activity

outdoors Everyone else should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

<0.75 miles Hazardous Sensitive people should remain indoors and keep activity levels low.

Everyone else should avoid all physical activity outdoors.

After determining visibility in miles use the following Wildfire Smoke Visibility Index to assess air quality.

Information will be updated and posted to the District Web site as available at www.placer.ca.gov. For general air quality

information go to www.sparetheair.com. The Spare the Air website is a great site to monitor current air quality values for

ozone and PM2.5. Smoke formation generates an increase in PM2.5 concentrations and the higher the concentration, the

higher the Air Quality Index value. Before conducting any outdoor activities it would be prudent to visit this sight to review the

Index and forecast for your area. If information is not provided for your general area, use the visibility index provided above to

determine air quality.

Following is the Air Quality Index table for Particle Pollution for reference.

Air Quality Index (AQI)

Index

Values

Levels

of Health

Concern

Cautionary Statements

0-50 Good None

51-100* Moderate

Unusually sensitive people should

consider reducing prolonged or

heavy exertion.

101-150 Unhealthy for Sensitive

Groups

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

reduce prolonged or heavy

exertion.

151-200 Unhealthy

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

avoid prolonged or heavy exertion.

Everyone else should reduce

prolonged or heavy exertion.

201-300 Very Unhealthy

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

avoid all physical activity outdoors.

Everyone else should avoid

prolonged or heavy exertion.

301-500 Hazardous

People with heart or lung disease,

older adults, and children should

remain indoors and keep activity

levels low. Everyone else should

avoid all physical activity outdoors.

Home | Residents | Business | Visitors | Online Services | Board of Supervisors | Emergency |

County Government |

© 2006 County of Placer, California | Legal Notices | Citizens Guide | Contact Us | Sign up for County e-News

Air Quality Advisory for Mon., July 7, through Thurs., July 10, 2008 http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/AirQuality7-7-08.aspx

6/19/2009 1:50 PM 2 of 2




Press Release: 2008-07-08 Health advisory for Northern California http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/nr062308b.htm

7/11/2008 9:43 AM 1 of 2

Release 08-58

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 9, 2008

 

Dimitri Stanich

(916)322-2825

www.arb.ca.gov

Health advisory for Northern California

Wildfire smoke in Sacramento Valley and surrounding foothill and mountain regions expected to worsen

SACRAMENTO -- 

Due to stagnant air conditions and wildfire smoke from the many wildfires burning around the state the Air Resources

Board and numerous local air quality agencies in Northern California are recommending individuals in areas with

'Unhealthy' air quality suspend outdoor activities.

Until the fires are extinguished, the ARB and local districts will continue to review and supplement air monitoring

resources to ensure air districts and public health officials have needed information to help protect public health. Air

pollution data are available on local air district web pages, and www.airnow.gov. This information is updated regularly.

High temperatures this week add a significant health risk to that already caused by poor air quality. The elderly or infirm

should take added measures to protect themselves from the immediate risks created by the heat and seek locations

with cool, filtered air .

Air quality and health officials are urging the public to stay informed about air pollution levels in their areas and take the

following actions to protect their health:

Stay indoors with windows and doors closed. Run window air-conditioners on the "re-circulate" setting, if available;

Most residential central air conditioning systems re-circulate the air inside the home, so these can be

operated normally; however, a small percentage of newer homes have mechanical ventilation systems that

actively bring in outdoor air, and these should be turned off or set to a "re-circulate" mode, if available. Do not

run swamp coolers or whole house fans;

Minimize or stop outdoor activities, especially exercise, during smoky conditions;

People in a "high risk" group or those who cannot find adequate shelter from the smoke need to move to a

emergency shelter.

If you must be outside in a smoky area, healthy individuals may wish to wear a mask called a "particulate respirator".

These resemble common dust masks but are different in very important ways. Choose one that has two straps and has

NIOSH, and either N95 or P100 printed on it and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. For more information

on N-95 or P100 go to the California Department of Public Health web page here.

It is harder to breathe with a mask on so check with your doctor before using a mask if you have heart or lung disease,

and take frequent breaks if you are working. Do not use bandanas (wet or dry), paper masks, or tissues held over the

mouth and nose. These will not protect your lungs from wildfire smoke.

N-95 or P-100 respirators work best when sealed closely to the face. Beards defeat the needed seal.

A stagnant weather pattern will eliminate breezes that could disperse the smoke over the region. As the week

continues, the lack of wind and transport of smoke will continue to cause Air Quality Index levels of unhealthy and very

unhealthy in many areas of northern California.

The most effective way to reduce exposure and avoid the ill effects of smoke is to stay indoors. Eliminate outdoor

activities while air quality is in the unhealthy range. Exposure and the ensuing health effects are dependent on the

amount of time spent outside, level of exertion, and air quality. Effects can be as mild as irritation of eye, nose and

throat; and headache; or as serious as triggered asthma episodes or stresses on weakened cardiovascular systems.
Press Release: 2008-07-08 Health advisory for Northern California http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/nr062308b.htm

7/11/2008 9:43 AM 2 of 2

Children and older individuals should be especially careful when the threat of exposure is high. Those with pre-existing

heart and lung problems should consider curtailing activities at the AQI level of Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. Even

healthy people may experience some symptoms in smoky conditions.

It is especially important for people with respiratory or heart disease monitor their health. If their symptoms worsen they

should immediately consult with their health care providers. Individuals with moderate or severe heart or respiratory

disease should consider alternatives and stay away from areas with high smoke concentrations. Such individuals

should evaluate whether evacuation might actually cause greater exposure than staying at home using other

precautions described above if smoke is already present in substantial quantities.

Additionally, small pets can also be impacted by unhealthy air and should be brought indoors if possible.

These additional steps are recommended by the California Department of Public Health, the Office of Environmental

Health Hazard Assessment, and local health departments.

Making the decision to cancel or reschedule active outdoor events is difficult, but when smoke levels reach unhealthy

levels coupled with very high temperatures, the prudent decision is to protect yours and the health of others.

Public officials may take the precautions of closing schools and businesses, canceling public events and calling for

evacuation. If you are evacuated, make sure to drive with the windows rolled up and the air conditioner set to

re-circulate.

For current information about local smoke conditions, find your local air quality management group here.

For current and forecast particulate matter AQI information click here.

More information on how to protect yourself is available here.

For a guide for public officials on wildfire smoke go here.

______________

Below are photos of filters used to in monitors that measure particulate matter in the air. The samples ran for about one

day. The white filter is a blank unexposed filter. The brown one is from Willits and the blackest one is from Ukiah. The

Ukiah sample would be labeled 'Very Unhealthy.' Images courtesy of Mendocino County Air Pollution Control District.

You can see their webpage here: http://www.co.mendocino.ca.us/aqmd/index.htm .

The Air Resources Board is a department of the California Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to

promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while

recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to

attain and maintain health based air quality standards.

# # # # #
SPARE THE AIR

HEALTH ADVISORY 

For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Fasano July 8, 2008 415.749.4900 

 

 

Air quality continues to be unhealthy due to smog and smoke

Wednesday, July 9, is another Spare the Air Day 

SAN FRANCISCO - Today the Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a 

third consecutive Spare the Air Day, the seventh of the 2008 ozone season, and a health 

advisory due to wildfire smoke. 

Air quality in the Bay Area is forecast to be unhealthy tomorrow, Wednesday, July 9, 

2008. 

“The current air quality situation is unprecedented,” said Air District Executive Officer Jack 

Broadbent. “We historically have experienced days of high smog, but the combination of 

ozone and smoke in the air is creating uniquely unhealthy conditions.” 

A combination of light winds and hot temperatures will continue to create high levels of ozone 

in the Bay Area. Elevated levels of particulate matter due to wildfire smoke will also affect 

much of the nine-county region—comprising Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San 

Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern Solano and southern Sonoma Counties. 

Children, the elderly, and residents with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma 

are advised to limit outdoor exertion. Everyone should avoid vigorous outdoor exercise. For 

more wildfire safety tips, see www.sparetheair.org.

The Air District issues Spare the Air health advisories whenever air quality is forecast to 

reach unhealthy levels. 

 

There is no free transit tomorrow. 

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is committed to achieving clean air to protect 

the public's health and the environment. For more information, visit www.baaqmd.gov. For 

information and tips to help you Spare the Air Every Day, visit www.sparetheair.org. 

# # # 


Page 1 of 1 

News Release 

7-8-2008 

For Immediate Release 

TO: 

Local News, Health and 

Weather sections 

North District Media Contact - Modesto 

Anthony Presto 

(209) 557-6400 

Central District Media Contact — Fresno 

& Spanish-language contact 

Claudia Encinas 

(559) 230-6000 

South District Media Contact - Bakersfield 

Brenda Turner 

(661) 326-6900 

Air officials issue smoke caution 

Ongoing wildfires elevate particle pollution 

Smoke from continuing wildfires is prompting Valley Air District officials to issue a health cautionary 

statement, which remains effective until fires are extinguished. 

“Due to the erratic nature of the smoke, areas of the eight-county air basin could potentially be 

affected at any given time,” said Shawn Ferreria, senior air quality specialist. 

Exposure to particle pollution, a byproduct of smoke, can cause serious health problems, 

aggravate lung disease, cause asthma attacks and acute bronchitis, and increase risk of 

respiratory infections. In people with heart disease, short-term exposure to particle pollution has 

been linked to heart attacks and arrhythmias, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection 

Agency. 

Residents throughout the San Joaquin Valley are advised to take their local air quality into 

consideration when planning their outdoor activities. People with heart or lung diseases should 

follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of unhealthy air quality. Additionally, older 

adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion. 

Everyone else should reduce prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion if smoke 

can been seen or smelled. 

Air-quality forecasts are available by county at www.valleyair.org or by calling 1-800 SMOG INFO 

(766-4463). Forecasts are issued at 4:30 p.m. daily for the following day. 

The Valley Air District covers eight counties including San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, 

Fresno, Kings, Tulare and the San Joaquin Valley air basin portion of Kern. For more information, 

visit www.valleyair.org or call the nearest District office: Modesto (209) 557-6400, Fresno (559) 

230-6000 and Bakersfield (661) 326-6900.
SPARE THE AIR

HEALTH ADVISORY 

For Immediate Release Contact: Lisa Fasano July 9, 2008 415.749.4900 

 

 

Tomorrow is the fourth Spare the Air Day in a row

Air quality will continue to be unhealthy on Thursday, July 10 

SAN FRANCISCO - Today the Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a 

fourth consecutive Spare the Air Day, the eighth of the 2008 ozone season, and has 

extended a health advisory due to wildfire smoke. 

Air quality in the Bay Area is forecast to be unhealthy tomorrow, Thursday, July 10, 

2008. 

“We have serious air quality conditions impacting the Bay Area right now,” said Air District 

Executive Officer Jack Broadbent. “The current combination of smoke and smog is making 

things particularly difficult for residents as they plan their outdoor activities.” 

A high pressure system causing hot temperatures and light winds continues to sit over the 

Bay Area. This will continue to create high levels of ozone in the region. Elevated levels of 

particulate matter due to wildfire smoke will also continue to affect much of the nine-county 

region—comprising Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa 

Clara, southwestern Solano and southern Sonoma Counties. 

Children, the elderly, and residents with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma 

are advised to limit outdoor exertion. Everyone should avoid vigorous outdoor exercise. For 

more wildfire safety tips, see www.sparetheair.org.

The Air District issues Spare the Air health advisories whenever air quality is forecast to 

reach unhealthy levels. 

 

There is no free transit tomorrow. 

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is committed to achieving clean air to protect 

the public's health and the environment. For more information, visit www.baaqmd.gov. For 

information and tips to help you Spare the Air Every Day, visit www.sparetheair.org. 

# # # 



SPARE THE AIR

HEALTH ADVISORY 

For Immediate Release Contact: Aaron Richardson July 10, 2008 415.749.4900 

 

 

Air quality expected to improve Friday

Air District is NOT declaring a Spare the Air Day on Friday, July 11 

SAN FRANCISCO – Due to improving air quality conditions, the Bay Area Air Quality 

Management District is NOT issuing a Spare the Air Day advisory for Friday, July 11. The 

region continues to be under a health advisory for Thursday due to wildfire smoke. 

“It looks like there will be a gradual improvement in air quality over the weekend,” said Air 

District Executive Officer Jack Broadbent. “We’ve had four straight Spare the Air days, but 

tomorrow we are forecasting that federal health standards will not be exceeded.” 

A high pressure system that has caused hot temperatures and light winds is beginning to 

weaken over the Bay Area. This will be accompanied by gradual cooling, stronger on-shore 

winds, and decreased ozone levels. Elevated levels of particulate matter due to wildfire 

smoke are continuing to affect much of the nine-county region—comprising Alameda, Contra 

Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, southwestern Solano and 

southern Sonoma Counties—but a change in wind direction may begin to mitigate the 

impacts from the wildfires located north of the Bay Area over the coming weekend. 

Air quality for tomorrow will be in the moderate category. Because of the changing fire 

conditions, the Air District is not lifting the health advisory for particulates or smoke. The Bay 

Area is experiencing a gradual decrease in smoke at ground level, but skies may still look 

muddy due to smoke at higher elevations. If residents smell or see smoke, they are still 

advised to limit outdoor exertion on Friday. For more wildfire safety tips, see 

www.sparetheair.org.

The Air District issues Spare the Air health advisories whenever air quality is forecast to 

reach unhealthy levels. 

 

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is committed to achieving clean air to protect 

the public's health and the environment. For more information, visit www.baaqmd.gov. For 

information and tips to help you Spare the Air Every Day, visit www.sparetheair.org. 

# # # 



1

CHRISTOPHER D. BROWN, AICP 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

CARMEL ANGELO 

MENDOCINO COUNTY Director 

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 

AND 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

For Immediate Release 

Public Health Officer and Air Quality Alert Issued 

7-11-08 

Release 17.0 

For all areas of Mendocino County 

(Ukiah) - Smoke accumulation from multiple wildland fires throughout Mendocino County 

and Northern California is heavy in parts of the County today. Satellite imagery this 

morning shows heavy levels of smoke covering most of the County, except for some 

coastal areas. There is and will continue to be additional smoke accumulation in the inland 

valleys. Overnight temperature inversions will continue to cause heavier smoke 

concentrations in lower elevations and valleys. Warming and winds are likely to reduce 

smoke levels later in the day, but smoke levels are likely to increase in the evening hours. 

Because of the increased pollutant levels and areas of poor air quality, the Mendocino 

County Air Quality Management District is issuing an Air Quality Alert for today, Friday, 

July 11, 2008, through 9:00 a.m. Saturday, July 12, 2008. 

The District is conducting continuous monitoring in Ukiah and monitoring in other locations 

using a portable monitor. Selected monitoring results from 7/9 – 7/11- 

Site Readings 

Ukiah (8:30am 7/11 reading) 0.018 mg/m3 “Good” (Much improved from overnight) 

Willits (7/9 Evening) 0.189 mg/m3 “Unhealthy (for all)” 

Ridgewood Grade (7/9 Morning) 0.123 mg/m3 “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” 

Hopland (7/9 Afternoon) .092 mg/m3 “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” 
2

Winds are expected to be out of the northwest to northeast most of this week. Smoke will 

generally travel to the south from any fires; however terrain and local winds will also impact 

smoke dispersion. Heavier smoke accumulations are likely to continue this week as high 

pressure continues to build and limits smoke dispersion.

It is advised that all residents stay indoors as much as possible when smoke is present. 

Close all doors and windows, and turn the air conditioner to recirculation mode. Ceiling 

fans and portable fans should be used, as well as a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) 

filter when available. The Public Health Officer is not recommending the use of masks. It 

is recommended that masks only be used if you can see heavy ash falling. Zero benefit is 

provided by masks that are not of N-95 quality or higher or properly fitted. For those with 

chronic lung problems, masks may actually exacerbate conditions. 

In areas of heavy smoke individuals with emphysema, asthma and cardiovascular disease 

are recommended to move to a cleaner environment, if they have the option to do so, due 

to the unhealthy air quality. If leaving is not an option, they should limit outdoor activities. 

Anyone using daily bronchodilator inhalers, oxygen, or steroids should not be outside or 

attend school unless absolutely necessary. Nighttime conditions are generally worse, as 

are valleys such as Boonville, Willits and Ukiah. All patients with lung or cardiovascular 

disease should check and make sure they have 5-7 days of medication on hand. 

The closing of schools is not recommended at this time. The Public Health Officer has 

issued a restriction of outdoor activities to all school districts (when heavy smoke is 

present). When smoke is heavy children should be driven to school whenever possible. 

Should a child have to walk to school, it is advised that they walk, do NOT run or ride a 

bike. 

In areas where visibility is less than one mile, it is strongly advised that all public athletic 

events, including practices, be cancelled. 

Weather conditions continue to change. Areas that currently read in the “Good” to 

“Moderate” range may worsen at any time. Please use your personal judgment and 

“common sense” when evaluating your environment in relation to your outdoor activities. 
3

Over the next few days, smoke is likely to present in the inland valleys and near any fires. 

Conditions are expected to be worse during the evening hours into the early morning as 

the smoke settles into low lying valleys. Conditions are likely to slowly improve beginning 

on Friday – models show improved smoke dispersion next week. 

The Air Quality Management District also would like to remind the public that the 

countywide burn ban issued by Cal Fire remains in effect; all outdoor burning is currently 

suspended. 

Visibility Range Health Category Health Effects 

10+ miles Good None 

5-10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should 

consider reducing prolonged or 

heavy exertion 

3-5 miles Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

Sensitive people should reduce 

prolonged or heavy exertion 

1.5 - 3 miles Unhealthy 

Sensitive people should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

Everyone else should avoid 

heavy exertion. 

.75 – 1.5 miles Very Unhealthy 

Very unhealthy sensitive people 

should avoid all physical activity 

outdoors. Everyone else should 

avoid prolonged or heavy 

exertion. 

>.75 miles Hazardous 

Sensitive people should remain 

indoors and keep activity levels 

low. Everyone else should avoid 

all physical activity outdoors. 

# # # 
Advanced Search

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Home > News > 2008 > July > AirQuality7-11-08 Today is June 19, 2009

Air Quality Advisory for Fri., July 11 through Mon., July 14,

2008

July 11, 2008

Widespread smoky conditions continue to affect Placer County from the valley to the Lake Tahoe area from wildfires inside

and outside of the county. Average concentrations of fine particulates (PM2.5) found in smoke, continue to fluctuate

throughout the day, with conditions ranging from moderate to hazardous depending on the location.

The weather forecast from the National Weather Service projects a gradual decrease in temperatures through the weekend.

With a change in wind direction, smoky conditions may improve, however, smoke impacts may continue in areas throughout

the county.

With the continued smoke episode, Tom Christofk, Placer County Air Pollution Control Officer and Dr. Richard Burton, MD,

Placer County’s Health Officer recommend all residents of Placer County who can see or smell smoke to avoid all

unnecessary outdoor activities.

With cooler temperatures in the early morning, smoke tends to move down the western slope becoming more concentrated in

foothill locations. In the afternoon hours and early evening, conditions appear to improve in the foothills as smoke rises into

higher elevations, including the Lake Tahoe area.

Reducing your exposure by using common-sense precautions is the best way to protect oneself from the smoke. If visibility is

poor in your area, then it is advised that you consider postponing outdoor activities until conditions improve. If you are being

impacted by smoke, the safest thing to do is to remain indoors, limit the intake of outdoor air into the home, and keep physical

activity low. Wearing bandanas over the face and dust masks will not protect you from the microscopic particles found in

smoke and will only impede airflow into the lungs. Consult your physician prior to wearing any type of filtering apparatus.

Particulates found within wildfire smoke, contains a multitude of particles, such as wood tar vapors and toxic gases. Other

pollutants found in smoke are carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons. Scientific studies have linked the fine

particles associated with smoke with a variety of significant health problems. Symptoms include eye irritation, throat irritation,

and coughing. People with existing heart and lung disease, including asthma, may experience heightened symptoms. They

should monitor their health and consult with their health care provider should their symptoms worsen. Even healthy people may

experience some of these symptoms in smoky conditions. Seek medical help if you experience symptoms that worsen or

become severe.

Dr. Burton and Christofk urge residents to keep in mind the following recommendations to limit one’s exposure in these smoky

conditions:

Healthy people should delay outdoor strenuous exercise.

Children and elderly people should avoid outdoor activities, particularly prolonged outdoor exertion.

People with specific illnesses, particularly respiratory problems, should remain indoors.

Using paper mask filters, which are not capable of filtering extra-fine smoke particles, and which restrict airflow, is not

recommended.

Stay inside with doors and windows shut. Use the recycle or recirculate mode on the air conditioner in your home or

car. Avoid cooking and vacuuming, which can increase pollutants indoors.

Asthmatics should follow their asthma-management plans.

Contact your doctor if you have symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.

This is important for not only people with chronic lung or heart disease, but also for individuals who have not been

previously diagnosed with such illnesses. Smoke can “unmask” or produce symptom of such diseases.

Keep airways moist by drinking lots of water. Room humidifiers might also provide some comfort.

Air Quality Advisory for Fri., July 11 through Mon., July 14, 2008 http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/AirQuality7-11-08.aspx

6/19/2009 1:50 PM 1 of 2
Use the following index to assess the air quality based on the visibility in a given area:

Face away from the sun. Determine visibility range by looking for targets that are at known distances (miles).

The visible range is the point where even high-contrast objects disappear.

After determining visibility in miles use the following Wildfire Smoke Visibility Index to assess air quality.

Home | Residents | Business | Visitors | Online Services | Board of Supervisors | Emergency |

County Government |

© 2006 County of Placer, California | Legal Notices | Citizens Guide | Contact Us | Sign up for County e-News

Air Quality Advisory for Fri., July 11 through Mon., July 14, 2008 http://www.placer.ca.gov/News/2008/July/AirQuality7-11-08.aspx

6/19/2009 1:50 PM 2 of 2

1

CHRISTOPHER D. BROWN, AICP 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

CARMEL ANGELO 

MENDOCINO COUNTY Director 

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 

AND 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

For Immediate Release 

Public Health Officer and Air Quality Advisory 

Issued 7-14-08 

Release 20.0 

For all areas of Mendocino County 

(Ukiah) - Smoke accumulation from multiple wildland fires throughout Mendocino County 

and Northern California may occur in parts of the County today. Satellite imagery this 

morning shows light smoke over the north County and heavier smoke in the Round Valley 

area. The District has issued “alerts” for last 22 days (since June 23rd), today the situation 

has improved enough for the “alert” status to be lifted - however local areas of poor air 

quality may still occur. 

Because of the chance of local areas of poor air quality, the Mendocino County Air Quality 

Management District is issuing an Air Quality ADVISORY for today, Tuesday, July 15, 

2008, through 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 16, 2008. 

The District is conducting continuous monitoring in Ukiah and monitoring in other locations 

using a portable monitor when needed. Monitoring results from 7/15 - 

Site Readings in mg/m3 

Ukiah (8:00am 7/14) 0.006 “Good” 

Winds are expected to be out of the northwest to west most of this week. Smoke will 

generally travel to the south or east from any fires; however terrain and local winds will 

also impact smoke dispersion. Smoke dispersion should be generally good this week. 
2

It is advised that all residents stay indoors as much as possible when heavy smoke is 

present. Close all doors and windows, and turn the air conditioner to recirculation mode. 

Ceiling fans and portable fans should be used, as well as a HEPA (High Efficiency 

Particulate Air) filter when available. The Public Health Officer is not recommending the 

use of masks. It is recommended that masks only be used if you can see heavy ash 

falling. Zero benefit is provided by masks that are not of N-95 quality or higher or properly 

fitted. For those with chronic lung problems, masks may actually exacerbate conditions. 

In areas of heavy smoke individuals with emphysema, asthma and cardiovascular disease 

are recommended to move to a cleaner environment, if they have the option to do so, due 

to the unhealthy air quality. If leaving is not an option, they should limit outdoor activities. 

Anyone using daily bronchodilator inhalers, oxygen, or steroids should not be outside or 

attend school unless absolutely necessary. Nighttime conditions are generally worse, as 

are valleys such as Boonville, Willits and Ukiah. All patients with lung or cardiovascular 

disease should check and make sure they have 5-7 days of medication on hand. 

The closing of schools is not recommended at this time. The Public Health Officer has 

issued a restriction of outdoor activities to all school districts (when heavy smoke is 

present). When smoke is heavy children should be driven to school whenever possible. 

Should a child have to walk to school, it is advised that they walk, do NOT run or ride a 

bike. 

In areas where visibility is less than one mile, it is strongly advised that all public athletic 

events, including practices, be cancelled. 

Please use your personal judgment and “common sense” when evaluating your 

environment in relation to your outdoor activities. 

Over the next few days, smoke is likely to present in the inland valleys and near any fires. 

Conditions are expected to be worse during the evening hours into the early morning as 

the smoke settles into low lying valleys. Conditions are likely to be generally better this 

week than last week. 
3

The Air Quality Management District also would like to remind the public that the 

countywide burn ban issued by Cal Fire remains in effect; all outdoor burning is currently 

suspended. 

Visibility Range Health Category Health Effects 

10+ miles Good None 

5-10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should 

consider reducing prolonged or 

heavy exertion 

3-5 miles Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

Sensitive people should reduce 

prolonged or heavy exertion 

1.5 - 3 miles Unhealthy 

Sensitive people should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

Everyone else should avoid 

heavy exertion. 

.75 – 1.5 miles Very Unhealthy 

Very unhealthy sensitive people 

should avoid all physical activity 

outdoors. Everyone else should 

avoid prolonged or heavy 

exertion. 

>.75 miles Hazardous 

Sensitive people should remain 

indoors and keep activity levels 

low. Everyone else should avoid 

all physical activity outdoors. 

# # # 

1

CHRISTOPHER D. BROWN, AICP 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

CARMEL ANGELO 

MENDOCINO COUNTY Director 

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 

AND 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

For Immediate Release 

Public Health Officer and Air Quality Advisory 

Issued 7-17-08 

Release 22.0 

For all areas of Mendocino County 

(Ukiah) - Smoke accumulation from multiple wildland fires throughout Mendocino County 

and Northern California may occur in parts of the County today. Satellite imagery this 

morning shows light smoke over the north County and heavier smoke in the Round Valley 

area. For the third day smoke appears to following the Middle Fork of the Eel River from 

the fires in Trinity County to Round Valley. Although the Mendocino County Air Quality 

Management District is not issuing an alert at this time local areas of poor air quality may 

still occur. 

Because of the chance of local areas of poor air quality, the Mendocino County Air Quality 

Management District is issuing an Air Quality ADVISORY for today, Thursday, July 17, 

2008, through 9:00 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2008. 

The District is conducting continuous monitoring in Ukiah and monitoring in other locations 

using a portable monitor when needed. Monitoring results from 7/17 - 

Site Readings in mg/m3 

Ukiah (8:00am 7/17) 0.009 “Good” 
2

Winds are expected to be out of the northwest to west most of this week. Smoke will 

generally travel to the south or east from any fires; however terrain and local winds will 

also impact smoke dispersion. Smoke dispersion should be generally good this week. 

<health info> 

Over the next few days, smoke may be present in the inland valleys and near any fires. 

Conditions are expected to be worse during the evening hours into the early morning as 

the smoke settles into low lying valleys. Conditions are likely to be generally better this 

week than last week. 

The Air Quality Management District also would like to remind the public that the 

countywide burn ban issued by Cal Fire remains in effect; all outdoor burning is currently 

suspended. 

Visibility Range Health Category Health Effects 

10+ miles Good None 

5-10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should 

consider reducing prolonged or 

heavy exertion 

3-5 miles Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

Sensitive people should reduce 

prolonged or heavy exertion 

1.5 - 3 miles Unhealthy 

Sensitive people should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

Everyone else should avoid 

heavy exertion. 

.75 – 1.5 miles Very Unhealthy 

Very unhealthy sensitive people 

should avoid all physical activity 

outdoors. Everyone else should 

avoid prolonged or heavy 

exertion. 

>.75 miles Hazardous 

Sensitive people should remain 

indoors and keep activity levels 

low. Everyone else should avoid 

all physical activity outdoors. 

# # # 
1

CHRISTOPHER D. BROWN, AICP 

Air Pollution Control Officer 

CARMEL ANGELO 

MENDOCINO COUNTY Director 

AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 

AND 

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY

For Immediate Release 

Public Health Officer and Air Quality Alert Issued 

7-18-08 

Release 23.0 

For all areas of Mendocino County 

(Ukiah) - Smoke accumulation from multiple wildland fires throughout Mendocino County 

and Northern California is heavy in parts of the County today. The Smoke is being 

generated by fires in Trinity County, particularly the fires in the Yolo-Bolly Wilderness area. 

Warming and winds are likely to reduce smoke levels later in the day, but smoke levels 

may increase in the evening hours. 

Because of the increased pollutant levels and areas of poor air quality, the Mendocino 

County Air Quality Management District is issuing an Air Quality Alert for today, Friday 

July 18th, through 9:00 a.m. Saturday, July 19th, 2008. 

The District is conducting continuous monitoring in Ukiah and monitoring in other locations 

using a portable monitor. Selected monitoring results from 7/19/08 - 

Site Readings in mg/m3 

Ukiah (12:00pm 7/19 reading) 0.048 “Moderate” 

Covelo (7/19 AM) 0.089 “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” 

Howard Forest CDF (5 min average 

– 11:40am) 

0.280 “Unhealthy (for all)” 
2

Winds are expected to be out of the west to northwest for most of this week. Smoke will 

generally travel to the east or south from any fires; however terrain and local winds will 

also impact smoke dispersion.

It is advised that all residents stay indoors as much as possible when smoke is present. 

Close all doors and windows, and turn the air conditioner to recirculation mode. Ceiling 

fans and portable fans should be used, as well as a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) 

filter when available. The Public Health Officer is not recommending the use of masks. It 

is recommended that masks only be used if you can see heavy ash falling. Zero benefit is 

provided by masks that are not of N-95 quality or higher or properly fitted. For those with 

chronic lung problems, masks may actually exacerbate conditions. 

In areas of heavy smoke individuals with emphysema, asthma and cardiovascular disease 

are recommended to move to a cleaner environment, if they have the option to do so, due 

to the unhealthy air quality. If leaving is not an option, they should limit outdoor activities. 

Anyone using daily bronchodilator inhalers, oxygen, or steroids should not be outside or 

attend school unless absolutely necessary. Nighttime conditions are generally worse, as 

are valleys such as Boonville, Willits and Ukiah. All patients with lung or cardiovascular 

disease should check and make sure they have 5-7 days of medication on hand. 

The closing of schools is not recommended at this time. The Public Health Officer has 

issued a restriction of outdoor activities to all school districts (when heavy smoke is 

present). When smoke is heavy children should be driven to school whenever possible. 

Should a child have to walk to school, it is advised that they walk, do NOT run or ride a 

bike. 

In areas where visibility is less than one mile, it is strongly advised that all public athletic 

events, including practices, be cancelled. 

Weather conditions continue to change. Areas that currently read in the “Good” to 

“Moderate” range may worsen at any time. Please use your personal judgment and 

“common sense” when evaluating your environment in relation to your outdoor activities. 
3

Smoke may continue to be to present in the inland valleys and near any fires. Conditions 

are may be worse during the evening hours into the early morning as the smoke settles 

into low lying valleys. 

The Air Quality Management District also would like to remind the public that the 

countywide burn ban issued by the California Department of Forestry (Cal Fire) remains in 

effect; all outdoor burning is currently suspended. 

Visibility Range Health Category Health Effects 

10+ miles Good None 

5-10 miles Moderate Usually sensitive people should 

consider reducing prolonged or 

heavy exertion 

3-5 miles Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups 

Sensitive people should reduce 

prolonged or heavy exertion 

1.5 - 3 miles Unhealthy 

Sensitive people should avoid all 

physical activity outdoors. 

Everyone else should avoid 

heavy exertion. 

.75 – 1.5 miles Very Unhealthy 

Very unhealthy sensitive people 

should avoid all physical activity 

outdoors. Everyone else should 

avoid prolonged or heavy 

exertion. 

>.75 miles Hazardous 

Sensitive people should remain 

indoors and keep activity levels 

low. Everyone else should avoid 

all physical activity outdoors. 
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 1 of 16

 WildfireSmoke and Health information: Several Soures

Scroll Down for all recent public information release Hot Summer Weather: What to do to stay healthy

Lake County’s Air Quality expected to return to the Good Range by Sunday -

RELEASE UPDATE: July19, 2008

Contact: Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO 263-7000

Lake County’s air has improved this week. Though our normal blue skies are sometimes

missing, no exceed of a health-based State or Federal Air Quality Standard has occurred this

week and no exceed is expected through July 21st. Lake County experienced increased

smoke impacts on Saturday, only reaching 59% of the Air Quality Standard. Using the

Federal Air Quality Index (AQI) for particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is expected

to be in the good to moderate range. The AQI for particulate is expected to remain well

below 101 where an unhealthy alert is given.

The Mendocino Lighting Complex fire was fully contained Thursday evening but numerous 

wildfires continue to burn in Northern California resulting in some smoke, haze and degraded

air quality, though substantial progress has been made on these wildfires. West to Northeast 

winds could transport some smoke to the Lake County Air Basin but conditions are expected 

to improve from moderate on Saturday to good by Sunday. Continued West to Southwest 

winds have kept smoke to the North of Lake County, but wind directions do shift resulting in 

the return of some smoke. Some confined valleys in the Northern part of the county may 

continue to experience periods of localized moderate impacts as smoke settles into those 

locations, but most of Lake County should return to the good range as more westerly winds 

develop. Residual smoke can be expected to remain throughout all areas of Northern 

California, including Lake County, until the wildfires are completely contained.

Attached reference table; 7/19/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

 PM 2.5 ug/m3 Standard Standard

*7/19/08 20.8 59% 61 Trending 

Moderate 

7/18/08 9.1 26% 30 Good

7/17/08 6.4 18% 21 Good

7/16/08 6.9 20% 22 Good

7/15/08 4.8 14% 16 Good

7/14/08 3.9 11% 13 Good

7/13/08 12 34% 39 Good

7/12/08 20.2 58% 60 Moderate

7/11/08 36 103% 91 Moderate

7/10/08 50 143% 120

Unhealthy 

for 

Sensitive 

Groups

7/9/08 38.8 No State 111% 97 Moderate

7/8/08 23.3 Air 67% 71 Moderate

7/7/08 21.4 Standard 61% 63 Moderate

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/2/08 13.9 40% 46 Good
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 2 of 16

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 Moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

6/29/08 25 71% 70 Moderate

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 

100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive individual 

should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. An 

AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive 

individuals class. Higher health advisory classes include 

unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and 

hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 2:30 PM, partial days 

data.

Lake County’s Air Quality expected to be in the Good to Moderate Range Through

Monday July 21th - RELEASE UPDATE: July18, 2008

Contact: Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO 263-7000

Lake County’s air has improved this week. Though our normal blue skies are sometimes

missing, no exceed of a health-based State or Federal Air Quality Standard has occurred this

week and no exceed is expected through July 21th. Using the Federal Air Quality Index

(AQI) for particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is expected to be in the good to

moderate range. The AQI for particulate is expected to remain well below 101 where an

unhealthy alert is given.

The Mendocino Lighting Complex fire was fully contained Thursday evening but numerous 

wild fires continue to burn in Northern California resulting in some smoke, haze and 

degraded air quality, though substantial progress has been made on these wildfires. West to 

Northeast winds could transport some smoke to the Lake County Air Basin but conditions are

expected to remain good over the weekend. Continued West to Southwest winds have kept 

smoke to the North of Lake County, but wind directions do shift resulting in the return of 

some smoke. Some confined valleys in the Northern part of the county may experience 

periods of localized moderate impacts as smoke settles in to those locations. Residual smoke 

can be expected to remain throughout all areas of Northern California, including Lake 

County until the wildfires are completely contained.

Attached reference table; 7/18/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

 PM 2.5 ug/m3 Standard Standard

*7/18/08 7.7 22% 25 Trending 

Good

7/17/08 6.4 18% 21 Good

7/16/08 6.9 20% 22 Good

7/15/08 4.8 14% 16 Good

7/14/08 3.9 11% 13 Good

7/13/08 12 34% 39 Good

7/12/08 20.2 58% 60 Moderate

7/11/08 36 103% 91 Moderate

7/10/08 50 143% 120

Unhealthy 

for 

Sensitive 

Groups

7/9/08 38.8 No State 111% 97 Moderate

7/8/08 23.3 Air 67% 71 Moderate

7/7/08 21.4 Standard 61% 63 Moderate

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 3 of 16

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/2/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 Moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

6/29/08 25 71% 70 Moderate

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 

100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive individual 

should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. An 

AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive 

individuals class. Higher health advisory classes include 

unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and 

hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 2:30 PM, partial days 

data.

Lake County’s Air Quality expected to remain in the Good to Moderate Range

Through Friday July 18th - RELEASE UPDATE: July 17, 2008

Contact: Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO or Warren Massie, AQT 263-7000

Lake County’s air has improved this week. Though our normal blue skies are sometimes

missing, no exceed of a health-based State or Federal Air Quality Standard has occurred this

week and no exceed is expected on July 18th. Using the Federal Air Quality Index (AQI) for

particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is expected to be in the good to moderate range.

The AQI for particulate is expected to remain well below 101 where an unhealthy alert is

given.

Numerous wild fires continue to burn in Northern California resulting in some smoke, haze 

and degraded air quality, though substantial progress has been made on these wildfires. West 

to Northeast winds could transport some smoke to the Lake County Air Basin but any impact 

is expected to be minor. Continued West to Southwest winds have kept smoke to the North of

Lake County , but wind direction could shift resulting in the return of some smoke. Residual 

smoke can be expected to remain, though at a reduced level, throughout all areas of Northern 

California, including Lake County until the wildfires are out.

Attached reference table; 7/17/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

 PM 2.5 ug/m3 Standard Standard

*7/17/08 5 14% 16 Trending 

Good

7/16/08 6.9 20% 22 Good

7/15/08 4.8 14% 16 Good

7/14/08 3.9 11% 13 Good

7/13/08 12 34% 39 Good

7/12/08 20.2 58% 60 Moderate

7/11/08 36 103% 91 Moderate

7/10/08 50 143% 120

Unhealthy 

for 

Sensitive 

Groups

7/9/08 38.8 No State 111% 97 Moderate
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 4 of 16

7/8/08 23.3 Air 67% 71 Moderate

7/7/08 21.4 Standard 61% 63 Moderate

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/2/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 Moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

6/29/08 25 71% 70 Moderate

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 

100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive individual 

should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. An 

AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive 

individuals class. Higher health advisory classes include 

unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and 

hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 3 PM, partial days 

data.

Lake County’s Air Quality expected to be in the Good to Moderate Range Through

Thursday July 17th - RELEASE UPDATE: July16, 2008

Contact: Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO or Bob Reynolds, APCO 263-7000

Lake County’s air has been improving since late last week. Though our normal blue skies are

sometimes missing, no exceed of a health-based State or Federal Air Quality Standard has

occurred this week and no exceed is expected on July 17th. Using the Federal Air Quality

Index (AQI) for particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is expected to be in the good to

moderate range. The AQI for particulate is expected to remain well below 101 where an

unhealthy alert is given.

Numerous wild fires continue to burn in Northern California resulting in some smoke, haze 

and degraded air quality, though substantial progress has been made on these wildfires. West

to Northeast winds could transport some smoke to the Lake County Air Basin but any impact 

is expected to be minor. Continued West to Southwest wind have kept smoke to the North of 

Lake County , but wind direction could shift resulting in the return of some smoke. Residual 

smoke can be expected to remain, though at a reduced level, throughout all areas of Northern 

California, including Lake County until the wildfires are out.

Attached reference table; 7/16/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

 PM 2.5 ug/m3 Standard Standard

*7/16/08 10.7 31% 35 Trending 

Good

7/15/08 4.8 14% 16 Good

7/14/08 3.9 11% 13 Good

7/13/08 12 34% 39 Good

7/12/08 20.2 58% 60 Moderate

7/11/08 36 103% 91 Moderate

7/10/08 50 143% 120

Unhealthy 

for 

Sensitive 

Groups

7/9/08 38.8 No State 111% 97 Moderate
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 5 of 16

7/8/08 23.3 Air 67% 71 Moderate

7/7/08 21.4 Standard 61% 63 Moderate

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/2/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 Moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

6/29/08 25 71% 70 Moderate

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 

100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive individual 

should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. An 

AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive 

individuals class. Higher health advisory classes include 

unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and 

hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 3 PM, partial days 

data.

Lake County’s Air Quality expected to be in the Good to Moderate Range Though some

Smoke From Fires Remains: RELEASE UPDATE: July16, 2008

Contact: Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO & Cheri Kendrick Sr. AQE 263-7000

Lake County’s air has been improving since late last week. Though our normal blue skies are

sometimes missing, no exceed of a health-based State or Federal Air Quality Standard has

occurred this week and no exceed is expected on July 16th. Using the Federal Air Quality

Index (AQI) for particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is expected to be in the good to

moderate range. The AQI for particulate is expected to remain well below 101 where an

unhealthy alert is given.

Numerous wild fires continue to burn in Northern California resulting in smoke, haze and 

degraded air quality, though continued substantial progress has been made on these wildfires.

West to Northeast winds could transport some smoke to the Lake County Air Basin. 

Continued West to Southwest wind has kept smoke to the North of Lake County , but wind 

direction could shift resulting in the return of some smoke. Residual smoke can be expected 

to remain, though at a reduced level, throughout all areas of Northern California, including 

Lake County until the wildfires are out.

Attached reference table; 7/15/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

 PM 2.5 ug/m3 Standard Standard

7/15/08 3.9 11% 13 Trending Good 

7/14/08 3.9 11% 13 Good

7/13/08 12 34% 39 Good

7/12/08 20.2 58% 60 Moderate

7/11/08 36 103% 91 Moderate

7/10/08 50 143% 120 Unhealthy for 

Sensitive Groups

7/9/08 38.8 No State 111% 97 Moderate

7/8/08 23.3 Air 67% 71 Moderate

7/7/08 21.4 Standard 61% 63 Moderate

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 6 of 16

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/2/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 Moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

6/29/08 25 71% 70 Moderate

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 100 results in 

a moderate rating, where sensitive individual should consider reducing 

prolonged or heavy exertion. An AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a 

unhealthy for sensitive individuals class. Higher health advisory classes 

include unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and 

hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 2 PM, partial days data.

Lake County’s Air Quality expected to be in the Good to Moderate Range Though some

Smoke From Fires Remains: RELEASE UPDATE: July15, 2008

Contact: Robert Reynolds, APCO & Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO 263-7000

Lake County’s air has improved beginning in late afternoon Friday from the smoke intrusions

of the numerous wildfires, has continue through today and is expected to continue through

tomorrow. Though our normal blue skies are sometimes missing, no exceed of a health-based

State or Federal Air Quality Standard is expected on July 15th. Using the Federal Air Quality

Index (AQI) for particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is expected to be in the good to

moderate range. The AQI for particulate is expected to remain well below 101 where an

unhealthy alert is given. The last "unhealthy for sensitive groups was issued on July 11,

2008.

The numerous, lightning-strike caused fires continue to burn in Northern California and 

results in smoke, haze and degraded air quality, though continued substantial progress has 

been made by the fire agencies. 

A West to South wind has continued to keep smoke to theNorth of Lake County. July 15,

2008 is expected to have good air quality.

The Mendocino Lightning Complex, Mendocino National Forest wildfires as well as 

numerous other fires continue to burn despite improved containment. Residual smoke from

these fires remains present at a reduced level and is likely to continue on an intermittent basis 

throughout all areas of Northern California, including Lake County until the wildfires are out.

Attached reference table; 7/14/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

 PM 2.5 ug/m3 Standard Standard

*7/14/08 5.3 15% 17 Trending 

Good

7/13/08 12 34% 39 Good

7/12/08 20.2 58% 60 Moderate

7/11/08 36 103% 91 Moderate

7/10/08 50 143% 120

Unhealthy 

for 

Sensitive 

Groups

7/9/08 38.8 No State 111% 97 Moderate
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 7 of 16

7/8/08 23.3 Air 67% 71 Moderate

7/7/08 21.4 Standard 61% 63 Moderate

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/2/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 Moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

6/29/08 25 71% 70 Moderate

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 

100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive individual 

should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. An 

AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive 

individuals class. Higher health advisory classes include 

unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and 

hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 2 PM, partial days 

data.

UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE GROUPS ALERT Continues for Friday July 11, 2008

Air Quality in Lake County has Degraded from Smoke Intrusions - Caution is Urged 

(Joint Public Information Release of the Health Department and AQMD)

RELEASE UPDATE of July 9th Release: July 10, 2008 @ 16:00

CONTACTS: 

Dr. KarenTait, Health Officer @ 263-1090 Bob Reynolds or Doug Gearhart @ 263-7000

Lake County Health Department Lake County Air Quality Management District

Wildfires continue to burn in Northern California and result in smoke, haze and degraded air quality. Because of the weather 

patterns and control of many of the fires most of Lake County has experienced improved air quality in the past week. July 

10th is estimated to exceed the Federal and State health based particulate standard for ultrafine particulate by 175%, The

standards are designed to protect sensitive groups of the population. The prediction for tomorrow is for some improvement,

but for a continued "UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE INDIVIDUALS ALERT " in Lake County, given the present 

degraded air quality and expected meterology.

Smokey conditions can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and air passages, which can be hazardous for sensitive individual 

including young children, the elderly, individuals with heart conditions or chronic lung disease such as asthma, bronchitis 

and other respiratory conditions. The heat can make the stress worse, especially during physical activities.

Even though local hospitals report no unusual increases in illness likely to be related to poor air quality, Lake County health

officials recommend taking simple precautions in order to stay healthy. Lake County Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Tait 

advises residents near the fires be prepared. Individuals with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other lung or heart diseases 

should make sure that they have at least a five-day supply of any prescribed medications. Individuals with asthma should 

carefully follow their asthma management plans. Anyone, regardless of known health conditions, should seek medical 

attention if they experience unusual symptoms of chest pain, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Sensitive individuals 

should be prepared to stay indoors, avoid vigorous physical activity and use the "recirculation" function on the air 

conditioner if available. Strong consideration should be given to moving planned outdoor events to an indoor location or 

rescheduling them, especially if they involve sports or similar activities. Lake County Public Health Officer, Dr. Karen Tait, 

notes that many of the same people who have been advised to take precautions related to recent reductions in air quality from

wildfire activity are also susceptible to heat-related illness and should take special care. It is important to stay hydrated, drink 

adequate water to ensure you do.

Dust masks are not protective against the most harmful pollutants caused by wildfire smoke that drifts to nearby areas. They 

are useful in filtering out the ash and larger particles that are encountered in burn areas and should be considered when 

recovering property or cleaning areas that have burned. Air purifying respirators, such as N-95 filtering face pieces, may be 

effective in reducing harmful particulate matter, but also increase the work of breathing, can lead to physiologic stress, and 

are not recommended as a general protective measure. Their use should be limited to individual circumstances requiring 

addition protection (http://bepreparedcalifornia.ca gov/EPO/BeInformed /NaturalDisasters/Wildfires/CleanupFireAsh.htm), 
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 8 of 16

preferably in personnel trained and familiar with the proper fitting and use of these devices. 

The UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE INDIVIDUALS DAY results from smoke transported by winds. Presently the

Mendocino Complex is the primary source of smoke but other fires including the Butte Complex have a potential to also 

cause significant degradation. The Soda Complex in the MNF continues to burn and is contributing smoke with northerly

winds. Good progress has been made in containing this complex of fires. Northerly winds will bring smoke into the Clear

Lake basin from this and several other larger fires burning north of Lake County. 

Residual haze and particulate from the many ongoing wildfires can be expected to continue throughout areas of Northern 

California, including Lake County until the numerous fires are out.

Attached reference table; 7/9/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

PM10 ug/m3 Standard Standard

6/29/08 31.7 63% 21% 30 Good

6/30/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/1/08 24 48% 16% 22 Good

7/2/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/3/08 13.1 26% 9% 12 Good

7/4/08 10.6 21% 7% 10 Good

7/5/08 14 28% 9% 13 Good

7/6/08 15.9 32% 11% 15 Good

7/7/08 24.7 49% 16% 23 Good

7/8/08 26.7 53% 18% 23 Good

7/9/0/ 44.8 90% 30% 42 Good

*7/1008 70.5 141% 47% 59 moderate

PM 2.5 ug/m3

6/29/08 25

No State 

Air 

Standard

71% 70 moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 moderate

 7/02/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good

7/7/08 21.4 61% 63 Moderate

7/8/05 23.3 67% 71 Moderate

7/9/08 38.8 111% 97 Moderate

*7/10/08 61.1 175% 142

Unhealthy 

for 

Sensitive 

Groups

UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE GROUPS ALERT Continues for Thursday July 10, 2008

Air Quality in Lake County has Degraded from Smoke Intrusions - Caution is Urged 

(Joint Public Information Release of the Health Department and AQMD)

RELEASE DATE: July 9, 2008 @ 16:00

CONTACTS: 

Dr. KarenTait, Health Officer @ 263-1090 Bob Reynolds or Doug Gearhart @ 263-7000

Lake County Health Department Lake County Air Quality Management District

Wildfires continue to burn in Northern California and result in smoke, haze and degraded air quality. Because of the weather 

patterns and control of many of the fires most of Lake County has experienced improved air quality in the past week. July 9 

is estimated to be near the allowed Federal health based particulate standard for ultrafine particulate, designed to protect

sensitive groups of the population. The prediction for tomorrow given EXPECTED wind conditions and levels of particulate

and ozone presently in the air is for conditions to continue and recommendation for an "UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE 

INDIVIDUALS ALERT " in Lake County.

Smokey conditions can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and air passages, which can be hazardous for sensitive individual 

including young children, the elderly, individuals with heart conditions or chronic lung disease such as asthma, bronchitis 

and other respiratory conditions. The heat can make the stress worse, especially during physical activities.

Even though local hospitals report no unusual increases in illness likely to be related to poor air quality, Lake County health
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 9 of 16

officials recommend taking simple precautions in order to stay healthy. Lake County Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Tait 

advises residents near the fires be prepared. Individuals with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other lung or heart diseases 

should make sure that they have at least a five-day supply of any prescribed medications. Individuals with asthma should 

carefully follow their asthma management plans. Anyone, regardless of known health conditions, should seek medical 

attention if they experience unusual symptoms of chest pain, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Sensitive individuals 

should be prepared to stay indoors, avoid vigorous physical activity and use the "recirculation" function on the air 

conditioner if available. Strong consideration should be given to moving planned outdoor events to an indoor location or 

rescheduling them, especially if they involve sports or similar activities. Lake County Public Health Officer, Dr. Karen Tait, 

notes that many of the same people who have been advised to take precautions related to recent reductions in air quality from

wildfire activity are also susceptible to heat-related illness and should take special care. It is important to stay hydrated, drink 

adequate water to ensure you do.

Dust masks are not protective against the most harmful pollutants caused by wildfire smoke that drifts to nearby areas. They 

are useful in filtering out the ash and larger particles that are encountered in burn areas and should be considered when 

recovering property or cleaning areas that have burned. Air purifying respirators, such as N-95 filtering face pieces, may be 

effective in reducing harmful particulate matter, but also increase the work of breathing, can lead to physiologic stress, and 

are not recommended as a general protective measure. Their use should be limited to individual circumstances requiring 

addition protection (http://bepreparedcalifornia.ca gov/EPO/BeInformed /NaturalDisasters/Wildfires/CleanupFireAsh.htm), 

preferably in personnel trained and familiar with the proper fitting and use of these devices. 

The UNHELATHY FOR SENSITIVE INDIVIDUALS DAY results from smoke transported by winds. Presently the Butte 

Complex is the primary source, but with changing wind directions, the Mendocino Complex will be the primary source of 

smoke. Currently the smoke is being transported to sea within a circulation cell, and may return back over Northern 

California in a wide band of smoke filled air which if combined with new smoke as it passes over ongoing fires could cause 

significant deterioration of our air quality. The smoke and sunlight cause chemical reactions in the air that further reduces 

visibility by forming secondary particles in addition to those already in the smoke. These particles draw the moisture out of 

the air, growing in number and size, making the haze even worse. 

The third wildfire complex of concern is the Soda Complex burning in the MNF. Good progress has been made in

containing this complex of fires. Northerly winds, which are predicted, will bring smoke into the Clear Lake basin from this 

and several other larger fires burning north of Lake County. Several wildfires exist to east of Lake County in the Sierra 

foothills and presently are contributing to degraded air quality in Lake County.

Residual haze and particulate from the many ongoing wildfires can be expected to continue throughout areas of Northern 

California, including Lake County until the numerous fires are out.

Attached reference table; 7/9/2008

Federal 

AQI Calc % State % Federal Advisory

PM10 ug/m3 Standard Standard

6/29/08 31.7 63% 21% 30 Good

6/30/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/1/08 24 48% 16% 22 Good

7/2/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/3/08 13.1 26% 9% 12 Good

7/4/08 10.6 21% 7% 10 Good

7/5/08 14 28% 9% 13 Good

7/6/08 15.9 32% 11% 15 Good

7/7/08 24.7 49% 16% 23 Good

7/8/08 26.7 53% 18% 23 Good

*7/9/08 42.3 85% 28% 39 Good

PM 2.5 ug/m3

6/29/08 25

No State 

Air 

Standard

71% 70 moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 moderate

 7/02/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good

7/7/08 21.4 61% 63 Moderate

7/8/05 23.3 67% 71 Moderate

*7/9/08 36.7 105% 93

Moderate 

Trending 

Unhealthy 

for 
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 10 of 16

Sensitive 

Groups

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 

100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive individual 

should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. An 

AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive 

individuals class. Higher health advisory classes include 

unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and 

hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 3 PM, partial days 

data.

UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE INDIVIDUALS ALERT on Wednesday July 9, 2008

Air Quality in Lake County has Degraded from Smoke Intrusions 

Caution is Urged ON Wednesday July 9, 2008 

(Joint Public Information Release of the Health Department and AQMD)

RELEASE DATE: July8, 2008 @ 16:00

CONTACTS: 

Dr. KarenTait, Health Officer @ 263-1090 Bob Reynolds or Doug Gearhart @ 263-7000

Lake County Health Department Lake County Air Quality Management District

Numerous, wildfires continue to burn in Northern California and result in smoke, haze and degraded air quality. Because of 

the weather patterns and control of the Wild and Walker fires most of Lake County has experienced improved air quality. 

While values have ranged between 32% to 71% of allowed State and Federal health based particulate standards for small 

respirable particulate and the ultrafine, inhalable, particulate, designed to protect sensitive groups of the population. The

prediction for tomorrow given EXPECTED wind conditions and levels of particulate and ozone presently in the air, is that

tomorrow will be an “UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE INDIVIDUALS ALERT ” in Lake County.

Smokey conditions can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and air passages, which can be hazardous for sensitive individual 

including young children, the elderly, individuals with heart conditions or chronic lung disease such as asthma, bronchitis

and other respiratory conditions. The heat can make the stress worse, especially if exercising hard.

Even though local hospitals report no unusual increases in illness likely to be related to poor air quality, Lake County health

officials recommend taking simple precautions in order to stay healthy. Lake County Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Tait 

advises residents near the fires be prepared. Individuals with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other lung or heart diseases

should make sure that they have at least a five-day supply of any prescribed medications. Individuals with asthma 

shouldcarefully follow their asthma management plans. Anyone, regardless of known health conditions, should seek medical 

attention if they experience unusual symptoms of chest pain, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Sensitive individuals 

should be prepared to stay indoors, avoid vigorous physical activity and check for a "recirculation" function on the air

conditioner. If smoke is present, it will be easier to breathe indoors if air is recirculating instead of drawing smokey air from

outdoors. Strong consideration should be given to moving planned outdoor events to an indoor location or rescheduling 

them, especially if they involve sports or similar activities. Lake County Public Health Officer, Dr. Karen Tait, notes that 

many of the same people who have been advised to take precautions related to recent reductions in air quality from wildfire 

activity are also susceptible to heat-related illness and take special care. Be sure to stay hydrated. 

Dust masks are not protective against the most harmful pollutants caused by wildfire smoke that drifts to nearby areas. They 

are useful in filtering out the ash and larger particles that are encountered in burn areas and should be considered when 

recovering property or cleaning areas that have burned. Air purifying respirators, such as N-95 filtering face pieces, may be 

effective in reducing harmful particulate matter, but also increase the work of breathing, can lead to physiologic stress, and 

are not recommended as a general protective measure. Their use should be limited to individual circumstances requiring 

addition protection (http://bepreparedcalifornia.ca gov/EPO/BeInformed /NaturalDisasters/Wildfires/CleanupFireAsh.htm), 

preferably in personnel trained and familiar with the proper fitting and use of these devices. 

The UNHELATHY FOR SENSITIVE INDIVIDUALS DAY results from smoke transported by winds. Presently the 
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 11 of 16

Mendocino Lightning Complex and the Butte Complex are the primary source. At DIFFERENT times smoke can be 

transported to sea within a circulation cell, and then return back over Northern California in a wide band of smoke filled air 

and combine with new smoke as it passes over ongoing fires. The smoke and sunlight cause chemical reactions in the air that 

further reduces visibility by forming secondary particles in addition to those already in the smoke. These particles draw the 

moisture out of the air, growing in number and size, making the haze even worse. 

The other wildfires of primary concern are the Soda Complex burning in the MNF, and good progress has been made in 

containing this complex of fires. Northerly winds, should they occur, will bring smoke into the Clear Lake basin from this 

and several other larger fires burning north of Lake County. Several wildfires exist to east of Lake County in the Sierra 

foothills and presently are contributing to degraded air quality in Lake County.

Residual haze and particulate from the many ongoing wildfires can be expected to continue throughout areas of Northern

California, including Lake County until the numerous fires are out.

Attached reference table; 

7/8/2008 

 

 Federal 

AQI 

Calc % State % Federal Advisory

PM10 ug/m3Standard Standard 

6/29/08 31.7 63% 21% 30 Good

6/30/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/1/08 24 48% 16% 22 Good

7/2/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/3/08 13.1 26% 9% 12 Good

7/4/08 10.6 21% 7% 10 Good

7/5/08 14 28% 9% 13 Good

7/6/08 15.9 32% 11% 15 Good

7/7/08 24.7 49% 16% 23 Good

*7/8/08 24.3 49% 16% 22 Good

 

PM 2.5 ug/m3 

6/29/08 25

No State 

Air 

Standard

71% 70 moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 moderate

 7/02/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good

7/7/08 21.4 61% 63 Moderate

*7/8/08 21 60% 62

Trending 

Unhealthy 

for 

Sensitive 

Individuals

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 

51 to 100 results in a moderate rating, where 

sensitive individual should consider reducing 

prolonged or heavy exertion. An AQI score of 101 to 

150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive individuals 

class. Higher health advisory classes include 
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 12 of 16

unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) 

and hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 3 PM, partial days data, last hourly 

value 133.

Lake County’s Air Quality Continues in the Good to Moderate Range Despite Smoke From Fires 

RELEASE UPDATE: July7, 2008 @ 16:15

Contact: Robert Reynolds, APCO & Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO263-7000

Lake County’s air has greatly improved from the initial heavy smoke of the numerous wildfires continuing through today.

Though our normal blue skies are often missing, no exceed of a health based State or Federal Air Quality Standard has

occurred for over a week. Levels have only reached 71% of any air standard limit, to include the PM 2.5 standard at the

highest, since June 29th.

Using the Federal Air Quality Index (AQI) for particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is classified as good to moderate,

though many would not agree the air is good. The highest AQI for particulate was 70, which is considered moderate and is

below the health warning for sensitive individuals, which start at a score of 101.

The numerous, lightning-strike caused fires continue to burn in Northern California and results in smoke, haze and degraded 

air quality, though substantial progress being made by the fire agencies is also lowering smoke levels for more distant

locations. In areas of Northern California, adjacent to wildfires, Unhealthy and Very Unhealthy warnings are continuing. 

The prevailing West to Northwest winds have not pushed as much smoke into Lake County in recent days as would be

expected, and continues to be a concern. The Mendocino Lightning Complex, Mendocino National Forest wildfires, as well 

as numerous other fires continue to burn, and though progress has been made these wildfires will transport smoke to the Lake

County Air Basin with West to Northeast winds.

Residual smoke remains present at a reduced level from the many fires and is likely to continue throughout all areas of 

Northern California, including Lake County until the wildfires are out.

Reference Table Attached

 Federal 

AQI 

Calc % State % 

Federal Advisory

PM10 ug/m3StandardStandard 

6/29/08 31.7 63% 21% 30 Good

6/30/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/1/08 24 48% 16% 22 Good

7/2/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/3/08 13.1 26% 9% 12 Good

7/4/08 10.6 21% 7% 10 Good

7/5/08 14 28% 9% 13 Good

7/6/08 15.9 32% 11% 15 Good

*7/07/08 22.9 46% 15% 21 Good

 

PM 2.5 ug/m3 

6/29/08 25 71% 70 moderate

6/30/08 13.6 39% 44 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 moderate

 7/02/08 13.9 40% 46 Good

7/3/08 11.3 32% 37 Good

7/4/08 9.2 26% 30 Good

7/5/08 12.1 35% 39 Good

7/6/08 13.8 39% 45 Good
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 13 of 16

Air 

Standard *7/07/08 19.9 57% 60 Moderate 

trendingGood

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 

to 100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive 

individual should consider reducing prolonged or heavy 

exertion. An AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a 

unhealthy for sensitive individuals class. Higher health 

advisory classes include unhealthy (151 to 200), very 

unhealthy (201 to 300) and hazardous (301 or higher).

* Trending as of 3 PM, partial 

days data. 

Lake County’s Reprieve from Smoke of Numerous Wildfires Expected to Continue through July 4th 

RELEASE of July 2 UPDATE: July3, 2008 @ 16:30

Contact: Robert Reynolds, APCO & Douglas Gearhart, Deputy APCO263-7000

Lake County’s air has greatly improved from the heavy smoke of last week starting with a weather change on Saturday

afternoon continuing through today. Though our normal blue skies are often missing, no exceed of a health based State or

Federal Air Quality Standard has occurred this week. Levels have only reached 70% of any air standard limit, to include the

PM 2.5 standard at the highest.

Using the Federal Air Quality Index (AQI) for particulate matter, Lake County’s air quality is classified as good to moderate,

though many would not agree the air is good. The highest AQI for particulate was 70, which is considered moderate and is

below the health warning for sensitive individuals, which start at a score of 101.

The numerous, lightning-strike caused fires continue to burn in Northern California and results in smoke, haze and degraded 

air quality, though substantial progress is being made by the fire agencies. In areas of Northern California, adjacent to 

wildfires, Unhealthy and Very Unhealthy warnings are continuing. Some areas have even issued Hazardous Advisories, the 

highest advisory level.

The Southwest winds instead of the prevailing West to Northwest winds are credited with the continued improved air quality 

conditions in Lake County. They are expected through July 4th. The Mendocino Lightning Complex, Mendocino National 

Forest wildfires, as well as numerous other fires continue to burn, and though progress has been made these wildfires will 

transport smoke to the Lake County Air Basin with West to Northeast winds.

Residual smoke remains present at a reduced level from the many fires and is likely to continue throughout areas of Northern

California, including Lake County until the wildfires are out.

Reference Table Attached

 % State % Federal AQI Advisory

PM10 ug/m3 Standard Standard Score Class

6/29/08 31.7 63% 21% 30 Good

6/30/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

7/1/08 24 48% 16% 22 Good

7/2/08 16 32% 11% 15 Good

*7/3/08 19.4 39% 13% 18 Good

PM 2.5 ug/m3 

6/29/08 25 No State 71% 70 moderate

6/30/08 13.6 Standard 39% 44 Good

7/1/08 20.4 58% 61 moderate

7/2/2008 13.9 40% 46 Good

*7/3/2008 16.7 48% 53 trending Good

An AQI of 0 to 50 results in a good rating, an AQI of 51 to 100 results in a moderate rating, where sensitive individual

should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. An AQI score of 101 to 150 results in a unhealthy for sensitive 

individuals class. Higher health advisory classes include unhealthy (151 to 200), very unhealthy (201 to 300) and hazardous 
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 14 of 16

(301 or higher). 

* Trending as of 3 PM, partial days data.

Reduced Smoke Results in Good Air Quality in Lake County

Caution is Still Urged

(Joint Public Information Release of the Health Department and AQMD)

RELEASE DATE: July1, 2008 @ 16:00

CONTACTS: 

Dr. KarenTait, Health Officer @ 263-1090 Bob Reynolds or Doug Gearhart @ 263-7000

Lake County Health Department Lake County Air Quality Management District

Numerous, lightning-strike caused fires continue to burn in Northern California and result in smoke, haze and degraded air 

quality. Because of the weather patterns and control of the Wild and Walker fires most of Lake County has experienced 

improved

healthful air beginning Saturday afternoon. Many areas of Northern California remain

under health warnings for air quality. Values have ranged between 32% to 71% of of allowed State and Federal health based

particulate standards, designed to protect sensitive groups of the population, for small respirable particulate and the ultrafine, 

inhalable, particulate. In recent days the ozone levels have remained below 86% of the State Standard and less than 65% of 

the Federal Standard. Smokey conditions can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and air passages, which can be hazardous in 

young children, the elderly, individuals with heart conditions or chroniclung disease such as asthma, bronchitis and other 

respiratory conditions.

In spite of improvements in local air quality over the past few days, Lake County Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Tait

advises area residents to be cautious in resuming normal activities. “Variable weather conditions and ongoing fire activity

may result in localized areas of reduced air quality, which could still pose health risks to people with underlying health

conditions. Since we can’t always predict when and where ‘pockets’ of poorer air quality may occur, it is prudent to be

careful until conditions stabilize.” Individuals with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other lung or heart diseases should

carefully adhere to their medical treatment plans and maintain at least a five-day supply of prescribed medications. They

should limit outdoor activity and unnecessary physical exertion. Air conditioning that recirculates indoor air should be used,

when available. Drinking plenty of water to avoid drying of the airways is recommended, unless restricted for medical

reasons.

Dust masks are not protective against the most harmful pollutants caused by wildfire smoke that drifts to nearby areas. They 

are useful in filtering out the ash and larger particles that are encountered in burn areas and should be considered when 

recovering property or cleaning areas that have burned. Air purifying respirators, such as N-95 filtering face pieces, may be 

effective in reducing harmful particulate matter, but also increase the work of breathing, can lead to physiologic stress, and 

are not recommended as a general protective measure. Their use should be limited to individual circumstances requiring 

addition protection (http://bepreparedcalifornia.ca gov/EPO/BeInformed /NaturalDisasters/Wildfires/CleanupFireAsh.htm), 

preferably in personnel trained and familiar with the proper fitting and use of these devices. 

The improved air quality is a direct result of the progress in controlling the wildfires and the sustained Southerly transport 

winds. Presently the Mendocino Lightning Complex, is the primary air quality concern for Lake County as winds may shift 

back to the prevailing west to northwest. The complex is located Northwest of Ukiah, consists of 123 fires with 43 active 

fires and 37,700 acres burned, it is still only 38% contained. Smoke can be trapped in the cooler marine air layer and 

transported inland with poor dispersion, causing elevated smoke impacts. At times smoke can be transported to sea within a 

circulation cell, and then return back over Northern California in a wide band of smoke filled air. The smoke and sunlight 

cause chemical reactions in the air that further reduces visibility by forming secondary particles in addition to those already

in the smoke. These particles draw the moisture out of the air, growing in number and size,making the haze even worse. 

The other wildfires of primary concern is the Soda Complex burning in the MNF, and good progress has been made in 

containing this complex of fires. Northerly winds, should they occur, will bring smoke into the Clear Lake basin from this 

and several other larger fires burning north of Lake County. Several wildfires exist to east of Lake County in the Sierra 

foothills and may cause degraded air quality in Lake County.

Residual haze and particulate from the many ongoing wildfires can be expected tocontinue throughout areas of Northern

California, including Lake County until thenumerous fires are out.

Lake County’s Air Quality Back in Attainment with all State and Federal Air Quality Standards.

(Public Information Release of the AQMD)

RELEASE DATE:June 30, 2008 2:49:12 PDT
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 15 of 16

Contact: Doug Gearhart or Cheri Kendrick @ 263-7000; Lake County Air Quality Management District

Lake County’s air quality continues to improve from the heavy wildfire smoke of last week. The Southwest winds instead of

the prevailing West to Northwest are credited with the present improved air quality conditions. Air pollution levels have

dropped below all health based air quality standards since Sunday, although residual smoke remains in some areas. South to

Southwest winds are expected to continue through tomorrow. Numerous, lightning-strike caused fires continue to burn in

northern California and result in smoke, haze and degraded air quality in other areas of northern California. Many of the

wildfires have grown to thousands of acres and smaller fires remain numerous. The Walker fire in eastern Lake County is

reported 100% contained, which is great news for Lake County. The Soda Complex Fire burning in northern Lake County

within the Menodcino National Forest has grown to 4,150 acres and is near 60% contained.The Mendocino Lightning

Complex, Northwest of Ukiah, remains the most likely to impact Lake County’s air, especially if prevailing transport winds

return. The over 123 fires have grown to 37,200 acres burned, with 54 active fires which are now 38% contained. These fires

have been the primary source of smoke entering the Lake County air basin during last week. The Mendocino National Forest

fires could transport smoke back to the Clear Lake basin with a north wind.

Residual haze and particulate from these many fires can be expected to continue throughout areas of Northern California, 

including Lake County until the numerous wildfires are out.

Lake County gets a Reprieve from Heavy Smoke of Numerous Wildfires

(Public Information Release of the AQMD)

RELEASE DATE:June 29, 2008 12:33:44 PM PDT

Contact: Doug Gearhart or Cheri Kendrick @ 263-7000; Lake County Air Quality Management District

Lake County got a reprieve from the heavy smoke of the last week starting with a weather change on Saturday afternoon

continuing into Sunday afternoon. No health based exceeds occurred, though residual smoke remains, and by Sunday midday

even the visibility was nearing the State standard. Numerous, lightning-strike caused fires continue to burn in northern

California and result in smoke, haze and degraded air quality. In other areas of northern California, adjacent fires have

caused unhealthy and very unhealthy warnings. In Butte County hazardous warnings have been issued as standards have

been exceeded by a factor of over 800%. Many of the wildfires have grown to thousands of acres and smaller fires remain

numerous. The Walker fire in eastern Lake County is reported 100% contained at 14,500 acres, which is great news for Lake

County. The Mendocino Lightning Complex, Northwest of Ukiah, remains the most likely to impact Lake County’s air,

especially if prevailing transport winds return. The over 100 fires have grown to 35,700 acres burned, with 60 active fires

which are only 5% contained. These fires have been the primary source of smoke entering Lake County basin during last

week. The Southwest winds instead of the prevailing West to Northwest are credited with the present improved air quality

conditions. In the Mendocino Forest two large lightning caused complexes continue to burn and will transport smoke to the

Clear Lake basin with a north wind.

Residual haze and particulate from these many fires can be expected to continue throughout areas of Northern California, 

including Lake County until the numerous wildfires are out.

Smoke From Numerous Wildfires Continue to Cause Air Quality Standard Exceeds in Lake County

(Joint Public Information Release of the Health Department and AQMD)

RELEASE DATE:June 27, 2008

CONTACTS:

Dr. KarenTait, Health Officer @ 263-1090 Bob Reynolds or Doug Gearhart @ 263-7000

Lake County Health Department Lake County Air Quality Management District

Numerous, lightning-strike caused fires continue to burn in northern California and result in smoke, haze and degraded air 

quality that continue to exceed State and Federal health standards for particulate throughout northern California, including 

Lake County on Thursday and Friday. Many of the wildfires have grown to thousands of acres and smaller fires are 

numerous. The Walker fire in eastern Lake County has grown to 14,500 acres and is 70% contained. The Mendocino 

Lightning Complex, Northwest of Ukiah, consists of 121 fires with 72 active fires and 27,000 acres burned, it is still only 5%

contained, and it has been the primary source of smoke entering Lake County the last two days. Saturday may result in a 

weather break that will improve air quality, at least temporarily, as air from the Southwest instead of the prevailing West to 

Northwest are predicted.

Air Monitoring data continues to show violations of health based standards to include the small respirable particulate State

Ambient Air Quality Standard and the Federal ultrafine, inhalable, particulate air standard which was exceeded by up to 
RecentRelease http://www.lcaqmd.net/documents/RecentRelease.htm

7/21/2008 8:32 AM 16 of 16

277%. The levels would be characterized as moderate to unhealthy air quality. The ozone levels have approached but not 

exceeded the state Standard and remain less than 75% of the Federal Standard.

Smokey conditions can cause irritation of the eyes, nose and air passages, which can be hazardous in young children, the

elderly, individuals with heart conditions or chronic lung disease such as asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions.

Even though local hospitals report no unusual increases in illness likely to be related to poor air quality, Lake County health

officials recommend taking simple precautions in order to stay healthy. Because of the uncertainty of fire conditions, Lake 

County Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Tait advises residents near the fires to be prepared. Individuals with asthma, 

bronchitis, emphysema and other lung or heart diseases should make sure that they have at least a five-day supply of any 

prescribed medications. Individuals with asthma should

carefully follow their asthma management plans. Anyone, regardless of known health conditions, should seek medical

attention if they experience unusual symptoms of chest pain, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Residents who live near 

the affected areas should be prepared to stay indoors, avoid vigorous physical activity and check for a "recirculation" 

function on the air conditioner.

If smoke is present, it will be easier to breathe indoors if air is recirculating instead of drawing smokey air from outdoors.

Strong consideration should be given to moving planned outdoor events to an indoor location or rescheduling them, 

especially if they

involve sports or similar activities.

The continued poor air quality is a direct result of these dispersed, numerous wildfires within the California Coastal

Mountains. Smoke is trapped in the cooler marine air layer and transported inland, causing the smoke impacts. At times 

smoke can be transported to sea within a circulation cell, and then return back over northern California in a wide band of 

smoke filled air. The smoke and sunlight cause chemical reactions in the air that further reduces visibility by forming 

secondary particles in addition to those

already in the smoke. These particles draw the moisture out of the air, growing in number and size, making the haze even

worse.

Residual haze and particulate from these fires can be expected to continue throughout

areas of Northern California, including Lake County until the numerous fires are out.

Lake County Citizens and Visitors are asked to refrain from personal fireworks use!

(Joint Public Information Release: Lake County Fire Chiefs Association and Air Quality Management District)

RELEASE DATE:June 25, 2008

The Lake County Fire Chiefs Association and Lake County Air Quality Management District is pleading with the public to 

refrain from use of personal fireworks this year in order to lower the fire hazard for us all. Enjoy the larger fireworks shows

that are conducted in a fire safe manner, over the lake and far from personal exposure to individuals. Firework sales and use 

are legal only within the City of Lakeport, sales or USE IS ILLEGAL IN ALL OTHER AREAS OF LAKE COUNTY AND 

THE CITY OF CLEARLAKE. The resource demand of fire agencies is depleted, any additional wildfires, even if they are 

small, will overburden fire fighters and further degrade our air quality. Thank you for your support and cooperation.

CONTACTS:

Howard Strickler, FCA 279-4268

Jim Robbins. FCA 274-3100

Mark Reina, Cal-Fire, 994-2441 
http://www.lcaqmd.net/wutdo.htm

7/21/2008 8:30 AM 1 of 1

Lake County Air Quality Management District Mission 

The mission of the Lake County Air Quality Management District (LCAQMD) is to maintain healthful ambient air quality for 

the residents and visitors of the Lake County Air Basin. The Air Basin is a federally and state recognized geographical area that 

is the same as the county boundary. The District is a regional agency, created by the state, that regulates stationary sources of

air pollution within the Lake County Air Basin. These sources include industrial developments such as The Geysers Geothermal

Power Generation as well as commercial businesses with air emissions such as mining operations and gasoline stations. The

District also regulates open burning and is delegated a variety of other programs such as state Air Toxic Control Measures 

(ATCMs) and federal New Source Performance Standards (NSPSs). The main purpose of the LCAQMD is to enforce local,

state, and federal air quality laws, rules and regulations in order to meet the Ambient Air Quality Standards (AAQSs), and 

protect the public from air toxics through local regulation, state ARB ATCM and federal EPA NESHAP specific control

regulations.

Funding is provided by state subventions, permit fees, fines and grants. The District is self-supporting, and is not funded by

property taxes. The LCAQMD pays overhead, rent and other charges to Lake County's General Fund.

The District's Board of Directors is the ex-officio County Board of Supervisors.

The District does not regulate occupational exposures nor indoor air quality.
San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District — News Release 

News Release 

For immediate release 

July 28, 2008 

>>City and assignment editors<< Central region 

Jaime Holt 

(559) 230-5850 

Northern Region 

Anthony Presto 

(209) 557-6472 

Southern region 

Brenda Turner 

(661) 326-6981 

Spanish-language contact 

Claudia Encinas 

(559) 230-5851 

Mariposa and Fresno county fires affect Valley 

Foothill, mountain areas may receive smoke impacts 

FRESNO – Smoke from the Telegraph wildfire near Yosemite and Tehipite fire in Fresno County is 

expected to elevate particulate matter in foothill and mountain communities in most counties in the Valley air 

basin. 

Air District officials expect no change in these conditions for the next few days. The smoke may impact 

portions of San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Tulare and Kern counties at one time or 

another. 

“We are advising people in these areas to monitor their local air quality and take precautions as necessary,” 

said Shawn Ferreria, senior air quality specialist at the District. 

Smoke produces particulate matter, or PM, which can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung 

disease, cause asthma attacks and acute bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections. In people 

with heart disease, short-term exposure to particle pollution has been linked to heart attacks and 

arrhythmias, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

If you can see or smell smoke, your area is being impacted. Residents in affected areas are advised to use 

caution. People with heart or lung diseases should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of 

unhealthy air quality. Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure, strenuous 

activities or heavy exertion. Everyone else should reduce prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy 

exertion. 

Air-quality forecasts are available by county at 4:30 p.m. each day at www.valleyair.org or by calling 1-800 

SMOG INFO (766-4463). 

The Valley Air District covers eight counties including San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, 

Kings, Tulare and the Valley air basin portions of Kern. For more information, visit the website or call the 

nearest District office: Modesto (209-557-6400); Fresno (559-230-6000); or Bakersfield (661-326-6900). 
PUBLIC HEALTH NOTES http://www.mariposacounty.org/healthdepartment/index.html

7/29/2008 1:30 PM 1 of 3

 

 Mariposa County

 Health Department

 Hot Health Topics Clinic Services Public Health Emergency Preparedness Take 

the Quiz

 Applications and Forms Environmental Health EMS Continuing Education

 

 Public Health and Air Pollution Contact:

Charles Mosher, MD, MPH, Public Health Officer, Air Pollution Control Officer

Health Alert: Expectation of Increased Smoke and Ash

Mariposa, CA – Smoke density remains great enough from the Telegraph Fire to

constitute a health threat for susceptible people.

Everyone, but especially people with heart or lung disease (including asthma),

older adults and children should limit time spent outdoors and limit prolonged or

heavy exertion and exercise when smoke is present. 

Wearing a mask is not sufficient protection.

Run your air conditioner, if you have one. Keep the fresh air intake closed and the

filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. Note: if you don’t have an

air conditioner, staying inside with the windows closed may be dangerous in

extremely hot weather. In these cases, seek alternative shelter.

Help keep particle levels inside lower. When smoke levels are high, try to avoid

using anything that burns, such as wood fireplaces, and even candles. Don’t

vacuum. That stirs up particles already inside your home. And don’t smoke. That

puts even more pollution in your lungs, and in the lungs of people around you.

If you have symptoms of lung or heart disease that may be related to excess

smoke exposure, including repeated coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty

breathing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain, palpitations, nausea or unusual

fatigue or lightheadedness, contact your health care provider.

This Health Alert is in effect until revised as conditions warrant. We project that conditions will

remain unhealthy for the next several days.

For additional information, check www.mariposacounty.org/health or call the Health

Department/A.P.C.D. at