The Los Altos area, along with most of the Bay Area, is still suffering from air designated as unhealthy in the wake of the massive Camp Fire in Butte County. A winter “Spare the Air” advisory, which prohibits any wood burning, is in effect through Tuesday (Nov. 20).
Forecasters are expecting the smokey air to begin clearing out with the onset of rain, forcast for Wednesday, Nov. 21.
The Santa Clara County Public Health Department advises residents to take precautions under current conditions. Tips include:
- If possible, stay inside with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside.
- Set air-conditioning units and car vent systems to recirculate to prevent outside air from moving inside.
- Parents and school administrators should check air quality readings before allowing children to practice outdoor sports while air quality is unhealthy.
- If you work outdoors or prolonged outdoor activity is unavoidable, certain masks (for example, properly fitted N-95 masks) can protect against harmful exposure. Typical surgical masks and bandanas do not provide adequate protection.
To check the latest air-quality data, visit airnow.gov.
