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The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has announced that Wednesday will be another Spare the Air day.

The district issues Spare the Air alerts when the forecast indicates that ozone pollution will reach unhealthy levels. To avoid creating more pollution, Bay Area residents are encouraged to bike, take transit or carpool to work instead of driving alone. There is a wood-burning ban in place on Wednesday, and no free transit rides are being offered.

Air district officials are also advising residents to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, when air quality is the worst. They point out that smog can cause throat irritation and congestion and trigger asthma.

Wednesday's Spare the Air alert is the second in two days and the third so far this summer. More information is available by visiting www.sparetheair.org or calling 800-HELPAIR (435-7247).

— Bay City News Service

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