With all the fires creating smoke pollution and the recent heatwaves in the Bay Area, one can truly appreciate clean air now more than ever! Despite these environmental hazards, we can still do our part to promote clean air. VTA is partnering with the Coalition for Clean Air to commemorate California Clean Air Day on Wednesday, Oct. 7.

You, too, can do your part, first and foremost by taking public transit! Last year during Clean Air Day, California had 1.25 million actions to clear the air, including more than 100,000 additional transit riders! Of course, biking and walking are other alternatives. You can also take the clean air pledge at the Coalition's site and view tips on how to talk to your family, friends and co-workers about what we all can do to combat air pollution. Here are a few simple steps to start with:

• Check air quality near you on the Coalition for Clean Air website and AirNow.Gov. Follow your local air district on social media for smoke advisories.
• Shelter-In-Place. Close windows and doors. Run your A/C on recirculate with a new filter or if you have a removable filter, be sure it is clean. If you are using an air filter, make sure it is CARB certified.
• Of course, face coverings are mandatory on public transit but you can also follow the most recent CDC guidance regarding masks.

If there is one thing our current challenging times have taught us, it is not to take clean air for granted!