New map shows where Californians can find relief during times of poor air quality
SACRAMENTO – The California Air Resources Board today announced the launch of an interactive, statewide map that offers a one-stop-shop for information about the location and services available at Clean Air Centers, where communities can seek refuge during times of poor air quality, including periods of intense wildfire smoke.
Built in collaboration with local air quality control districts, the online map makes it possible to see where Clean Air Centers are located and provides easy-to-access information, including operating hours, contact information and on-site resources like free Wi-Fi.
With wildfire season approaching, Clean Air Centers will offer Californians who don’t have access to adequate air filtration a safe place to go during periods of heavy smoke.
“Californians need to know where to turn for a safe haven in the event of an emergency that threatens local air quality. The Clean Air Centers map makes that essential information easily accessible to those who need it most,” said CARB Chair Liane Randolph.
The California Clean Air Centers Map also highlights the importance of a $5 million pilot program (https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/wildfire-smoke-clean-air-center-grant) designed to create a statewide network of Clean Air Centers by funding ventilation system upgrades and providing portable air cleaners to facilities in vulnerable communities. About 200 of the Clean Air Centers on the new map were created through the pilot program, jointly led by CARB and local air districts.
“Clean Air Centers are a high-value investment that provide direct, immediate health benefits to some of our most at-risk communities,” said Tung Le, Executive Director of the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association. “Access to clean air is a fundamental right that becomes a critical need when emergencies and other urgent situations arise. This map empowers individuals and communities with the information they need to stay safe during wildfire smoke and other air pollution events.”
Not all centers will appear on the map at the same time, as many of them only open during wildfire smoke events or other air quality emergencies. CARB and California’s local air districts will be updating the map with information on new or additional Clean Air Centers as that information becomes available.
CARB is also working on an upgrade to its mobile app, California Smoke Spotter (https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/fact-sheets/california-smoke-spotter), to include Clean Air Center locations and information. That update is expected to be released in the coming weeks.