Spare the Air Alert Issued for Monday

The first Spare the Air alert of the winter season has been issued for Monday by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.

A cold weather pattern and lack of wind has allowed air pollution to rise to a level that is considered unhealthy, according to the BAAQMD.

The alert bans the burning of wood, manufactured fire logs or other solid fuel, both inside and outdoors, for 24 hours.

Homes without permanently installed heating systems are exempt.

Wood smoke, the largest source of winter air pollution in the Bay Area, contains particulates and carbon monoxide and can especially harm children, the elderly or people with respiratory conditions.

Anyone who violates the burning ban will be given the option of taking a wood smoke awareness class or paying a $100 fine, according to the BAAQMD.

Second-time violators will be fined $500.

People concerned about wood smoke pollution can call (877) 4NO-BURN or visit www.baaqmd.gov to file a complaint or get more information.