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

Sign up for automated air quality notifications here  or for today's status call (530) 757-3787.                    

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 To Know When It Is A "Don't Light Tonight" (DLT)

There are three ways to obtain the DLT status:

• Check the District's website
• Call the District's DLT line after 11 am. each day -

(530) 757-3787.

• Sign up for Enviroflash notifications or click on the Enviroflash logo on the District's website.

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 25 micrograms per cubic meter of air or  greater or 74 AQI 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 two (2) sites in Solano County:

• Rio Vista
• 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.