SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY – As residents prepare to light up the skies for Independence Day, the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District is encouraging the public to consider cleaner, safer options for the sake of public health.
In a statement released on June 29, the district shared that personal fireworks release high levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which includes smoke, soot, ash and metals which can cause harm to vulnerable groups. Exposure to pollutants such as these can be especially harmful for children, older adults and individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
In addition to the air quality concerns, the district also reminds the public that fireworks can lead to injuries, fires and stress for pets, wildlife and local communities.
“As families gather to celebrate, we encourage Valley residents to do so responsibly and consider the impacts personal fireworks can have on air quality and public health,” said Jaime Holt, chief communications officer for the district, in a statement. “Fireworks activity can lead to significant increases in particle pollution, affecting air quality throughout the Valley and making it difficult for some residents to breathe.”
In the statement, the district showcased a graph which illustrated the PM2.5 levels on July 4, 2025. The graph also included benchmarks for the five levels of real-time outdoor activity risk (ROAR), with level one being safe for all and level five urging everyone to avoid outdoor activity.
From 9-11 p.m., when firework usage was at its peak, PM2.5 levels quickly rose to more than double the threshold for ROAR level five. According to the statement, fine particulate matter can travel deep into the lungs and bloodstream, contributing to cardiovascular health risks.
As an alternative that can help reduce air pollutants, the district encourages residents to hold off on the personal fireworks and instead attend one of the many public shows that take place throughout the Valley. The district asserts that community shows provide a safer experience that reduces the risk of fire, injuries and poor air quality.
