City of Pasadena Announces Temporary Leaf Blower Ban

PASADENA, Calif. - Due to poor air conditions in Pasadena caused by the Eaton Fire, the City of Pasadena has prohibited the use of power air blowers and air propelling devices ( such as leaf blowers ) until further notice to help limit the negative health impacts of fire ash, smoke, and particulate matter.

The fires, coupled with strong winds, have severely degraded air quality by releasing hazardous smoke and particulate matter, posing immediate and long-term risks to public health . Power a ir blowers and air propelling devices stir up ash and particulate matter into the air, further worsening air quality and increasing health risks for everyone , especially for individuals with respiratory conditions, older adults, children, and other vulnerable populations. Temporarily banning these devices will help protect the health and wellbeing of residents.

Power a ir blowers and air propelling devices will be allowed when recovery conditions have progressed to a point where the use of these devices will not negatively impact the lives, health, safety, and well-being of residents.

T he following recommendations will help you protect yourself and your family from harmful effects of bad air quality:

• If you see or smell smoke, or notice particles and ash in the air, stay indoors to limit exposure, especially if you have heart or lung conditions, are elderly, or have children.
• Keep indoor air clean by closing windows and doors. Use air conditioners that recirculate air to filter out harmful particles.
• Wear an N95 or P100 mask if you must go outside in smoky conditions for long periods of time in areas with heavy smoke or where ash is present.
• Avoid air conditioners that only bring in outside air and don't recirculate. Check and replace air filters regularly. Filters labeled "MERV13" or higher are most effective for removing smoke particles. HEPA air purifiers can further reduce indoor particles.
• If it's too hot to keep windows and doors closed and you do not have an air conditioner, go to a public place like a library or shopping center to stay cool and protect yourself from harmful air.
• Avoid using fireplaces, candles, or vacuums. Clean dusty surfaces with a damp cloth . For more information on ash cleanup safety, read the Safety Precautions and Ash Exposure Prevention press release .
• If you experience symptoms like severe coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, palpitations, nausea, or unusual fatigue, contact your doctor or go to urgent care. For life-threatening symptoms, call 911.
• When smoke lingers, fine particles may build up indoors even if you can't see them. Masks can protect against larger particles, but most don't block fine particles or toxic gases, which are more harmful.
• Practice safe clean-up following a fire. Follow the ash clean-up and food safety instructions at the Los Angeles County Public Health website .

Submit leaf blower ban violations at City Service Center .