Wood-fired heating prohibited for some due to high smog levels

Wood-fired heating will be prohibited for some residents starting at Midnight tonight, and lasting 24 hours into New Years Eve, because of high smog levels and stagnant air.

The “no burn day” order will be in effect in the Inland Empire, but not the Coachella Valley or in mountainous areas, said officials at the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

Residents who have wood as their sole source of heat, or those living above the 3,000-foot elevation, are exempt. People with low-income are exempt as well.

The no-burn order is also in effect in Los Angeles and Orange counties.

People seeking information about the order can visit http://www.airalerts.org. Just enter your zip code to find out if you’re area is prohibited from burning wood for heat.