The four-month Winter Spare the Air season started this week, making it illegal to burn wood on days when an alert is called.

Bay Area Air Quality Management District representatives said winter Spare the Air alerts are issued when dry, stagnant weather conditions trap pollution close to the ground and air district officials deem it unhealthy.

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.

During the last winter season ending in February, the air district issued a record 15 alerts.

Starting this season, first-time violators will be encouraged to take a wood smoke awareness course to learn about the health impacts of the
pollution. Those who choose not to take the course will face a $100 ticket.

Second violations will cost $500, with increasing fines for subsequent violations.

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

Dan McMenamin, Bay City News

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