01 May Spare The Air Season Is Here! Let’s Breathe Better Together
The 2026 Spare The Air season begins today, and we’re ready to “breeze” through the basics! Just five minutes of your time can help keep the Sacramento region’s air cleaner this summer.
From May through October, the air Districts of the Sacramento region collaborate to keep the region informed about air quality and ways we can all Breathe Better Together.
Ground-level ozone, also known as smog, is one of the region’s biggest air quality challenges, especially during long, sunny summer days. Smog forms when emissions from gas-powered vehicles react with sunlight.
Our region’s unique bowl-shaped geography traps pollution, keeping it close to the ground and preventing it from dispersing. This means ozone levels can rise quickly, making outdoor activities risky for some people.
Who is most affected by air pollution?
Sensitive groups include kids, seniors, pregnant women, outdoor workers and athletes, and those with breathing problems like asthma and COPD.
Exposure to high ground-level ozone levels may cause asthma attacks, fatigue, and long-term lung damage, so staying informed is vital.
Understanding the Air Quality Index (AQI)
The AQI measures pollution in the air we breathe. The higher the number, the more air pollution is present. On days when ground-level ozone is forecast to reach 126 or higher, a Spare The Air alert is issued.
When an alert is announced, residents and workers are encouraged to take action to reduce emissions and protect their health.
Every Action Makes a Difference
Here’s how you can help:
- Stay Informed
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- Check the daily AQI forecast on Facebook and X.
- Sign up for Air Alert to receive the forecast directly in your email inbox and alerts as a text on high-ozone days.
- Help your family, coworkers, and community learn about Spare The Air.
- Reduce Gas Emissions
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- Drive less
- Combine errands into one trip
- Carpool
- Take public transit
- Telework
- Walk, whenever possible
- Share Information – As a Spare The Air partner, your influence is invaluable!
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- Download and share free materials — tip sheets, flyers, and social posts, available in multiple languages.
- Request physical materials for your workplace, school, or community group on SpareTheAir.com.
We look forward to another exciting Spare The Air season. Let’s help our communities Breathe Better Together!
