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Department of Ecology News Release - Nov. 16, 2000
00-224
OLYMPIA - Poor air circulation throughout Washington has prompted the state Department of Ecology (Ecology) to ban all outdoor burning until further notice. Local restrictions on using wood stoves and fireplaces also are in effect in some areas.
Ecology urges people in all parts of the state to refrain from the unnecessary use of wood stoves and fireplaces and to monitor local radio and TV stations for news about indoor burning bans in their area. Households with no source of adequate heat other than wood are exempt from wood-stove and fireplace burn bans.
A high-pressure weather system over the Northwest is creating temperature inversions that can trap smoke and other pollution near the ground, according to Ecology meteorologist Darrell Weaver. This weather pattern could continue for several days. As these conditions persist, pollution is likely to increase.
"To minimize the effects of the inversion, we have banned outdoor burning and we recommend that people avoid other activities that create smoke and other air pollution," said Weaver.
Weaver noted that the greatest concern is the particulate matter in smoke from outdoor burning and from wood stoves and fireplaces. Smoke can accumulate, especially in low-lying areas where air circulation is particularly restricted by the temperature inversion, which traps a layer of cold air near the ground.
Particulate matter--fine airborne particles--can be inhaled deeply into the lungs and damage delicate tissues. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with respiratory or heart ailments are at the greatest risk from this pollutant. Outdoor exertion that causes deep breathing -- such as play, exercise or heavy physical labor -- can increase your exposure to particulate matter.
Contact: Larry Altose, public information officer, 425-649-7192; pager, 206-978-0122
For more information: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/air/airhome
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
