The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued a High Pollution Advisory for both PM2.5 and PM10 for today, as reported on the department's website. Arizonans are encouraged to take steps to reduce emissions during this time. Such measures include refraining from wood burning in fireplaces and stoves, considering upgrading to natural gas or propane, and utilizing electric over gasoline-powered garden equipment. With an incentive in place, residents can check eligibility for up to $2,000 for fireplace upgrades and up to $200 to replace gas-powered lawn equipment by visiting Maricopa.gov/AQ.
The advisory specifically calls for residents to quickly adapt their daily routines to help combat the unhealthy levels of particulate matter in the air. Suggestions to help keep air quality in check range from driving less, carpooling, and using public transit to avoiding the use of leaf blowers. Furthermore, the department advises refueling vehicles after sunset or during cooler evening hours, and forgoing the convenience of drive-thru services, instead parking and walking inside businesses.
There are specific restrictions accompanying the advisory. Notably, any wood burning is prohibited in Maricopa County during the HPA, be it in residential fireplaces or outdoor fires; government contractors and employees are barred from operating leaf blowers, and the use of off-road vehicles has been halted, as per the State of Arizona. Transportation Coordinators are requested to reach out to employees by email and activate HPA plans, encouraging alternative transportation. The PM2.5 particulates referenced in the advisory are tiny, potentially hazardous particles that can come from various combustion sources, including industry, vehicles, and residential wood burning.
The advisory intends to preemptively safeguard susceptible populations who might be adversely affected by increased air pollution, such as "active children, adults, and people with lung disease such as asthma," who the department says should "reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion," the State of Arizona stated.
