AIR QUALITY ADVISORY

July 2-5, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:           July 2, 2021

Contact:      Shasta County Air Quality Management District, 530-225-5674

AIR QUALITY OFFICIALS URGE CAUTION DUE TO WILDFIRE SMOKE

 SHASTA COUNTY – The Shasta County Air Quality Management District is advising Shasta County residents to remain aware of potential smoke impacts due to multiple wildfires burning in the Northern California region. Wildfire smoke originating from fires in the Lake Shasta area and Siskiyou County may transport varying amounts of wildfire smoke into the populated areas of Shasta County, especially the communities of Dunsmuir, Lakehead, Shasta Lake City, and other locations along the I-5 corridor. Certain areas may experience higher concentrations of smoke based on proximity to wildfires and current weather conditions. All members of the public, especially those with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children should remain alert, and if necessary, reduce or avoid all outdoor exertion when wildfire smoke is present. Everyone else should limit prolonged exertion in areas of noticeable smoke accumulation. Individuals wishing to minimize their exposure should:

• Limit exercise and outdoor activities
• Remain indoors with the windows and doors closed
• Turn on an air conditioner with a recirculation setting (such as in a vehicle)

Some areas of Shasta County may be experiencing higher concentrations of smoke than others depending on wind patterns and topography. All individuals are urged to use proper judgement when planning activities. The District, California Air Resources Board (CARB), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highly recommend using the EPA’s Fire & Smoke Map (https://fire.airnow.gov) for air quality smoke impacts and current Air Quality Index (AQI) information. Although there are alternative websites with similar information, this website provides the best information for viewing smoke maps, deployed PM2.5 wildfire monitors, and corrected sensor information. The District website also provides links to the latest and most accurate information available on wildfire smoke impacts and how to protect yourself from smoke.

For additional information and updates, you may visit the Shasta County Air Quality Management District Wildfire Smoke Webpage or call 530-225-5674.                                                                            

Additional safety tips can be found by going to Shasta County Health and Human Services Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke webpage and the Shasta Ready webpage.