South Coast AQMD issued eight No-Burn day alerts across the South Coast Air Basin during the 12th annual Check Before You Burn Season.

This is a slight decrease from last year’s 10 No-Burn days. The majority of No-Burn days occurred during the last week of December during a period of stagnant meteorological conditions. Winter storms, good Basin ventilation, and a continuing trend of reduced emissions helped keep PM2.5 levels low throughout most of the Check Before You Burn Season.

This season approximately 110 complaints were received and investigated related to unauthorized burning on No-Burn Days. In addition, 24 violation notices were issued to those who were observed to be burning on No-Burn Days.

Smoke caused by burning wood in fireplaces can emit approximately five tons of harmful PM2.5 emissions per day in the South Coast Air Basin. That is equal to PM2.5 emissions from all passenger vehicles in the Basin. However, during the Check Before You Burn season when wood burning activities are more common, the PM2.5 emissions from this source can be twice as high compared to an average day in the year. Exposure to PM.2 is associated with premature death, respiratory and cardiovascular disease, and other health issues. Reducing wood burning on No-Burn Days is critical to protect publichealth and is an important tool to help the region meet federal health-based clean air standards for PM2.5.

Residents can sign up for email or text notifications of No-Burn Days at www.AirAlerts.org.