A record seventh straight Spare the Air alert was called for Saturday in the Bay Area as a ban on burning wood fires was extended for another day due to poor air quality.

Forecasters say Spare the Air alerts also may be called for even more consecutive days through Tuesday because of lingering cold stagnant air that traps pollution near the ground.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District called the Spare the Air Alert for Saturday, extending the ban on burning wood and other solid fuels in fire places, stoves, and other devices.

The air district said people whose furnaces break down can apply for a temporary exemption from the rule by calling 877-4-NOBURN. Exemptions also are given in rural areas where residents lack alternatives to heat their homes.

Burn rule violators must pay a $100 fine or take an online smoke education class for a first violation, and $500 for a second offense.

Saturday is the 11th alert of the cold season.

The air district regulates air pollution in seven Bay Area counties and southern parts of Solano and Sonoma counties. Visit sparetheair.org for more information.
