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Department of Ecology News Release - December 1, 2008
08-315
OLYMPIA – Burn bans on unnecessary use of uncertified wood stoves, inserts and fireplaces have expired as scheduled in Pend Oreille and Stevens counties, according to the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology).
The Stage 1 burn bans began Saturday, Nov. 29, and continued until 10 a.m. today, Dec. 1. Ecology calls burn bans when pollution builds up from 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.
Under a Stage 1 ban:
“We’d like to thank residents who helped reduce air pollution in their counties by cutting back on unnecessary burning. That made a difference,” said Clint Bowman, an Ecology meteorologist.
During these episodes, 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 Contacts: Seth Preston, Ecology communications manager, 360-407-6848; 360-584-5744 cell; spre461@ecy.wa.gov
Jani Gilbert, Ecology communications manager, 509-329-3495
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
