Ecology calls burn ban for Stevens County

Washington State Department of Ecology

Department of Ecology News Release - November 16, 2008

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OLYMPIA – Worsening air quality in Stevens County is prompting the Washington Department of Ecology to issue a burn ban on unnecessary use of uncertified wood stoves, inserts and fireplaces, and on all outdoor burning.

"The air in Stevens County, particularly around Colville, isn't moving around enough to clear out pollutants," said Ecology meteorologist Clint Bowman. "It's going to be a few days before air movement improves."

Of special concern are fine particles released by smoke from outdoor burning, wood stoves and fireplaces. This smoke is likely to accumulate, especially in low-lying areas where a temperature inversion has trapped a layer of cold air near the ground.

Ecology's Stage 1 ban for Stevens County started Sunday, Nov. 16 and continues until 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18. Under a Stage 1 ban:

Use of fireplaces, uncertified wood stoves and uncertified inserts is prohibited unless they are a home's sole source of heat.
All outdoor burning – including residential, agricultural and forest burning – is prohibited.
Use of certified wood-burning devices and pellet stoves is allowed. Ecology recommends burning hot fires using only clean, dry wood.

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 over age 65.

Ecology recommends that people limit vehicle trips, combine errands or use public transportation to reduce air pollution.

For a list of certified wood stoves and clean-burning tips, see www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/air/outdoor_woodsmoke/wood_smoke_page.htm.

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Media Contact: Seth Preston, Ecology communications manager, 360-584-5744 cell; spre461@ecy.wa.gov