Mesa County Health Department officials have lifted last week’s burning
restrictions that were imposed to prevent air pollution from rising to
unhealthy levels.
restrictions that were imposed to prevent air pollution from rising to
unhealthy levels.
The restrictions were originally put into place due to increased concentrations
of particulate matter, or small particle pollution, and an inversion. The air
quality index was pushed into the moderate category and the inversion, which
essentially creates a cap over the Grand Valley, wouldn’t allow pollution to
disperse. These conditions can have adverse effects on sensitive groups of
people such as shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing.
of particulate matter, or small particle pollution, and an inversion. The air
quality index was pushed into the moderate category and the inversion, which
essentially creates a cap over the Grand Valley, wouldn’t allow pollution to
disperse. These conditions can have adverse effects on sensitive groups of
people such as shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing.
Residents should be aware the restrictions could be implemented again, depending
on conditions and forecasts.
on conditions and forecasts.
The ban has been lifted, but small changes in our everyday lives can help
keep our air clean:
keep our air clean:
- Avoid vehicle idling.
- Carpool when possible.
- Combine errands into one trip.
- Avoid waiting in drive-thru lines.