LAS VEGAS — Clark County’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has issued a smoke advisory for the Fourth of July holiday weekend as fireworks displays are expected to fill the skies across the Las Vegas Valley.
The advisory will remain in effect from July 3 through July 5. Officials emphasized that the advisory is intended to raise awareness about potential air quality concerns and is not meant to discourage residents from celebrating Independence Day.
Fireworks remain a popular tradition throughout Southern Nevada. However, they also release fine particulate matter and other pollutants into the atmosphere. As a result, temporary declines in air quality can occur, especially in areas where large fireworks displays take place.
DAQ forecaster Paul Fransioli said this year’s celebrations may be even larger as the nation marks the 250th anniversary of American independence.
“It’s not every day we get to celebrate the semiquincentennial of our nation’s independence, so we expect plenty of fireworks to light up the sky,” Fransioli said.
He noted that fireworks can produce elevated levels of particulate matter pollution that may affect sensitive individuals.
Smoke can affect vulnerable residents
Air quality experts warn that smoke contains tiny particles that can irritate the lungs and airways.
Consequently, people living with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis or other respiratory conditions may experience increased symptoms when smoke levels rise.
Additionally, air pollution can affect individuals with heart disease and other medical conditions.
Health officials recommend that residents who are sensitive to air quality changes monitor conditions closely throughout the holiday weekend. Parents of young children and caregivers of older adults should also remain aware of changing air quality conditions.
Under moderate or unhealthy conditions, spending more time indoors may help reduce exposure.
Tips to reduce smoke exposure
Clark County officials recommend several simple steps to limit exposure to smoke and airborne particles.
Residents should stay indoors if they see or smell significant amounts of smoke. Furthermore, keeping windows and doors closed can help prevent pollutants from entering the home.
People should also limit strenuous outdoor activities when air quality worsens. Exercise increases breathing rates, which can result in greater exposure to airborne particles.
Homeowners may want to inspect indoor air filters and replace them if they are dirty or clogged.
These small actions can help improve indoor air quality during periods of increased smoke.
Air quality information available online
The Department of Environment and Sustainability operates a network of air monitoring stations throughout the Las Vegas Valley.
These monitoring sites collect data that helps officials track air pollution levels and issue daily forecasts.
Residents can monitor current conditions through the department’s air quality website and receive alerts through EnviroFlash, social media channels and the AIRNow mobile application.
Officials encourage residents to stay informed throughout the holiday weekend while enjoying fireworks displays and community celebrations across Southern Nevada.
Clark County Division of Air Quality
4701 W. Russell Road, Suite 200
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Website: ClarkCountyNV.gov
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