  |
|
|
Department of Ecology News Release - December 10, 2008
08-324
OLYMPIA – Because of worsening air quality, the state Department of Ecology (Ecology) is banning use of some home-heating devices and all outdoor burning in three Eastern Washington counties.
Stage 1 burn bans are in effect until 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12, in Chelan, Walla Walla and Stevens counties. Under a Stage 1 ban:
“The air in those counties won’t be moving enough to clear out smoke and air pollution for the next few days. We’re asking people there to avoid burning and other activities that add to the problem,” said Ecology meteorologist Clint Bowman.
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.
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 www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/air/outdoor_woodsmoke/wood_smoke_page.htm.
###
Media Contacts:
Seth Preston, Ecology communications manager (Lacey), 360-407-6848;
360-584-5744 cell; spre461@ecy.wa.gov
Jani Gilbert, Ecology communications manager (Spokane), 509-329-3495
Cathy Cochrane, Ecology communications manager (Spokane), 509-329-3433
More information about Residential Burn Bans
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
