  |
|
|
Department of Ecology News Release - January 23, 2008
08-019
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) urges residents of some areas to voluntarily limit their use of wood stoves and fireplaces for the next several days.
Stagnant air conditions exist in Thurston County, the Shelton area in Mason County, and the Twisp-Winthrop area of north-central Washington. When air does not move enough, smoke from burning wood is trapped, especially in low-lying areas. Fine particles in smoke can be inhaled deeply into lungs and damage delicate tissues.
Air quality will vary in specific areas. Some areas may experience better or worse conditions sooner than others.
“The current outlook calls for another weather system to come into Washington on Saturday. That should clear out almost the entire state, except for valleys along the east slopes of the Cascades. We can expect that the entire state will be cleared out by Sunday morning,” said Ecology meteorologist Clint Bowman.
The Washington State Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution limit time spent outdoors. Air pollution can trigger asthma attacks, cause difficulty breathing, and make lung and heart problems worse. Air pollution is especially harmful to children, people with heart and lung problems, and adults age 65 and older.
During periods of reduced air quality, Ecology also recommends that people reduce air pollution by limiting vehicle trips, combining errands, or using public transportation.
# # #
Media contact: Seth Preston, Ecology communications manager, 360-407-6848; spre461@ecy.wa.gov
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
