Third Air Alert in a Row

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has called a "Spare the Air" day today.

The district issues Spare the Air alerts when the forecast indicates that ozone pollution may reach unhealthy levels. To avoid creating more pollution, Bay Area residents are encouraged to walk, bike, take public transit or carpool to work instead of driving alone. However, no free transit rides are being offered.

There is no wood-burning ban in place on Thursday, and air district officials are also advising residents to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, when air quality is the worst. They point out that smog can cause throat irritation, congestion and could trigger asthma.

Thursday's Spare the Air alert is the third consecutive alert this summer and the fourth so far this year. More information is available by visiting www.sparetheair.org or calling 1-800-HELPAIR (435-7247).

-- Bay City News Service