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The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality issued a high pollution advisory Tuesday and Wednesday.

A high contamination advisory means the highest concentrations of contamination may exceed federal health standards. Active children, adults, and people with lung diseases such as asthma should reduce prolonged or strenuous exercise outdoors.

The state is asking residents to take the following actions from December 24th to 25th:

• Eliminate the burning of wood in fireplaces, stoves, simeneas, and outdoor fire pits.
• Drive less, carpool, take public transportation, or telework.
• Avoid using leaf blowers.
• Use electric lawn and garden equipment.
• Reduce wait times in long drive-thru lines. Please come inside.
• Refuel your vehicle after dark or during the cooler hours of the evening.

In Maricopa County, burning wood in residential fireplaces, ximeneas, outdoor fire pits, and similar outdoor fires is prohibited. This includes individuals and businesses with open burning permits.

We would like to invite our readers to submit public comments on this issue. email AZOpinions@iniusa.org.