Pasadena residents must continue to avoid burning wood in their fireplaces and outdoor devices through Saturday as part of a broader Southland ban prompted by poor air quality forecasts. The restriction affects homes throughout the South Coast Air Basin, which includes Pasadena and surrounding communities.
The ban prohibits residents from using fireplaces and other wood-burning devices until 11:59 p.m. Saturday. It also extends to manufactured fire logs made from wax or paper.
Pasadena households that rely on wood as their sole source of heat are exempt from the restrictions. The exemption also applies to low-income households and those without natural gas service.
Health officials emphasize the serious respiratory risks posed by wood smoke. Fine particles from burning wood, classified as PM2.5, can penetrate deep into the lungs and trigger conditions like asthma.
Local residents can stay informed about burning restrictions through a notification system. Pasadenans can register for Air Alerts through email or text by visiting www.AirAlerts.org.