Air officials warn of bad air quality on July 4th holiday

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- If you're thinking of adding a little spark to your holiday festivities this weekend you may want to think twice.

As plenty of people are scrambling to put the finishing touches on 4th of July weekend festivities there's one thing to consider taking off your shopping list.

"Particulate matter is what comes out of fireworks and anything that is combustible," said Heather Heinks, San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.

Those personal fireworks that light up our pool parties and BBQ's pose more than just a fire hazard. Valley Air District Officials warn it could pose a health risk.

"If you set off fireworks in your neighborhood you're producing soot, ash, and chemicals that you and your neighbors are breathing," said Heinks. "So microscopic you can inhale them directly into your lungs and bloodstream. And it can have adverse health impacts."

Last 4th of July, particulate levels were four to five times higher than health-based federal standards-- pollution they consider preventable. So they're suggesting going to one of the dozens of public shows going on throughout the Valley. Particulate matter from those fireworks has time to break down before reaching ground level.

With the Valley already plagued by ozone pollution during the summer months, fireworks emissions add to the poor air quality.

"The emissions from the cars and trucks and all of the pollution we create bakes in that hot summer sun in the afternoon and we see ozone go up," said Heinks.

It's not just people with respiratory conditions, small children and elderly people who are at risk.

"The health impacts can make you feel like you have a summer cold, a scratchy throat, watery eyes, tightness in your chest," said Heinks.

For a complete list of public fireworks celebrations click here.

http://abc30.com/entertainment/central-valley-4th-of-july-fireworks-events/1409910/