Independence Day celebrations initiate air quality alert in Clark County
As the Independence Day weekend approaches, residents of Clark County are advised to take precautions to protect their health during a smoke advisory issued by the Clark County Division of Air Quality. The advisory, which is effective from Friday to Sunday, is a result of increased smoke levels due to fireworks and other activities.
The advisory is a precautionary measure to raise awareness and promote safe celebrations without restricting activities. People with respiratory or heart conditions, children, and seniors are particularly advised to take extra care during this period.
Particulate matter from fireworks can worsen symptoms of asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory or heart conditions. To minimise exposure, it is recommended to stay indoors when smoke is visible, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Air purifiers and running air conditioning on recirculate mode can also help reduce intake of smoky air. Residents can stay informed about air quality conditions through the Department of Environment and Sustainability's website, social media accounts (@ClarkCountyDES), daily text and email alerts via enviroflash.org, and the AIRNow mobile app.
Real-time data and forecasts are available on the DESAQMonitoring.ClarkCountyNV.gov website. Those with dirty indoor air filters are advised to consider replacing them.
Paul Fransioli, a forecaster with the department, urges folks with breathing issues to take precautions near fireworks. The department continues to monitor air pollution in real-time through monitoring stations across the Las Vegas Valley.
The smoke advisory is not intended to discourage Fourth of July festivities, but rather to encourage awareness among those most vulnerable to air quality changes. Residents are advised to stay indoors when smoke is visible or detectable by smell.
By taking these precautions, residents can enjoy the Independence Day weekend while ensuring their health and safety.
People planning celebrations in Las Vegas during the Independence Day weekend, especially those with respiratory or heart conditions, children, and seniors, should be aware of the smoke advisory issued by the Clark County Division of Air Quality. To mitigate the effects of air pollution, it's advisable to stay informed about air quality conditions through environmental-science resources like the Department of Environment and Sustainability's website, social media accounts, text and email alerts, and the AIRNow mobile app. Health-and-wellness practices such as staying indoors when smoke is visible, keeping windows and doors closed, and using air purifiers can help protect one's health during the celebrations.
