Don't Light Tonight  (Effective Nov 1 - Feb 28)

For automated air quality notificiations sign up at: http://ysaqmd.enviroflash.org                         

For today's burn status, call the burn line:
  (530) 757-3660 or (800) 246-3660 within 530, 916 or 707 area codes.

Don't Light Tonight Program

"Don't Light Tonight" is a voluntary program during the fall and winter in which the District asks residents not to use their woodstoves and fireplaces when air pollution approaches unhealthy levels. The program is aimed at keeping pollution levels of particulate matter below the health-based standards.

Concentrations of particulate matter can reach high levels due to low-lying air inversions. These inversions trap pollutants close to ground level affecting the air we breathe. These cold weather conditions, coupled with the increased use of fireplaces and woodstoves, can create pollution levels that lead not only to poor air quality but also to health problems for some residents.

Protecting the Public Health
The health effects of particulate matter are of special concern to the District.

Because of its size, PM2.5 can pass through the body's protective filters and enter deep into the lungs, increasing the risk of bronchial disease and lung damage. Wood smoke also contains toxic, carcinogenic substances such as benzene, formaldehyde and polycyclic organic matter.

How the Program Works

"Don't Light Tonight" is announced on the burn information telephone line and through the local media or residents can sign up for automated notification at http://ysaqmd.enviroflash.org. 

To obtain the daily burn status, call the District's agricultural burn line after 10 a.m. each day at (530) 757-3660 or toll free (800) 246-3660. On days that are declared "Don't Light Tonight," the District is advising residents not to use their woodstoves and fireplaces.

The District will call a "Don't Light Tonight" when PM 2.5 is forecasted to be 35 micrograms per cubic meter or higher. The District receives a 5-day forecast from Sonoma Technology in order to provide advance notification to residents.

There are two (2) sites in Yolo County:

• Davis
• Woodland

and one (1) site in Solano County:

• Vacaville,  which provide us with PM 2.5 readings. Residents can also check at www.sparetheair.com and click on current conditions to see each monitor's reading.

When heating with wood, an EPA Phase II-certified device is recommended. If a wood burning appliance is your sole source of heat, the District asks that you 'light it right.' A free 'Light It Right' brochure is available by contacting the District at 800-287-3650 or 530-757-3650.

For regional air quality go to: www.sparetheair.com.