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Department of Ecology News Release - November 29, 2008
08-314
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Ecology is issuing burn bans on unnecessary use of uncertified wood stoves, inserts and fireplaces, and on all outdoor burning in Stevens and Pend Oreille counties.
“The air isn’t moving around enough in those areas to clear out pollution caused by smoke from burning wood,” said Ecology meteorologist Clint Bowman. “We want to head off the problem before it gets worse.”
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 and Pend Oreille counties starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, and continues until 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 1. Under a Stage 1 ban:
The Washington State Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution should 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 http://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
PLEASE NOTE: The initial version of this news release published on November 28 said "necessary" instead of "unnecessary" in the first paragraph.
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
