SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is encouraging Bay Area residents to have a healthy and safe Fourth of July by not setting off fireworks to reduce smoke and air pollution while cutting the risk of brush fires as well.
Fireworks can cause an unhealthy spike in air pollution. Smoke, dust and soot from exploding fireworks result in elevated levels of particulate matter close to the ground making it difficult for people to breathe by triggering asthma attacks, coughing, wheezing and eye irritation. Sensitive groups, including those with respiratory issues, heart or lung disease, along with children and the elderly, should limit their exposure.
“Many in the Bay Area like to set off fireworks during Fourth of July celebrations, but they produce unhealthy air in our neighborhoods and around our homes,” said Jack Broadbent, executive officer of the Air District. “This Independence Day, leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy your local fireworks display instead to help reduce air pollution.”
The Bay Area region often exceeds federal air quality standards in the evening on July 4th and 5th due to neighborhood fireworks displays. Safe and sane fireworks, like those purchased at pop up fireworks stands, contain metal salts used to produce colors, but also produce excessive levels of smoke.
Increased air pollution from fireworks impacts people and pets around homes. Fireworks also have the potential to increase the risk of brush, wildfires or house fires that causing damage and further smoke impacts.
Check your local newspapers or city government offices to locate public fireworks displays in your community.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (www.baaqmd.gov) is the regional agency responsible for protecting air quality in the nine-county Bay Area.
