OAKRIDGE, Ore. – A “RED” home wood heating advisory has been extended in Oakridge.

The advisory from the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency was supposed to end Thursday at 4 p.m. but has been extended to 4 p.m. on Friday.

Officials said the advisory could be extended beyond Friday if conditions do not improve.

It was initially put in place at 4 p.m. on Wednesday.

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Air pollution levels rose overnight Tuesday in the city, settling in the Willamette City neighborhood, LRAPA said.

During a RED advisory, no visible smoke is allowed from a chimney at a residential home. Violations of this requirement can result in enforcement action and a fine from the city.

Residents are asked to use alternative heating devices. Economic exemptions are available through Oakridge City Hall.

“Our number one priority is public health and safety. We want people to stay warm but not expose themselves or others to high levels of air pollution that can be detrimental to their health,” said LRAPA spokesperson Jo Niehaus. “We ask that people burn extremely clean or use alternatives until the air quality improves.”

LRAPA also said children, pregnant women, seniors and those who suffer from respiratory or cardiovascular diseases should avoid strenuous exercise or time outside in the smoke.

Outdoor burning is also prohibited.