Bay Area air quality advisory issued due to wildfire smoke

(KRON) — The Bay Area Air District (BAAD) has issued an air quality advisory due to wildfire smoke from the Pickett Fire raging near Calistoga. The Air District is advising that smoke from the fire is expected to impact Sonoma, Napa, and Solano counties though Saturday, Aug. 23.

“Smoky, hazy skies may be visible, and the smell of smoke is possible,” the district said in a press release Friday.

Due to conditions that can change rapidly, the district is advising that the amount and location of smoke at ground level may be hard to predict. Real-time smoke pollution levels can be checked at the EPA’s Fire and Smoke Map.

Wildfire smoke, according to the BAAD, contains fine particulate matter and other harmful pollutants. Even for short periods of time, exposure to the smoke can be unhealthy.

The BAAD advises area residents to avoid exposure by staying inside with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside. Residents can also reduce exposure by setting car vent systems to recirculate to keep outside air from getting in.

Using an indoor air filtration system or going to a Clean Air Center can also help reduce exposure. Smoke from wildfires can irritate eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat, and irritated sinuses.

People who suffer from asthma, emphysema or COPD can be especially vulnerable to wildfire smoke. The BAAD advises elderly people, children, and those with respiratory illnesses to take extra precautions.