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Department of Ecology News Release - December 12, 2008
08-327
OLYMPIA – Burn bans on unnecessary use of uncertified wood stoves, inserts and fireplaces have expired as scheduled in Chelan, Stevens and Walla Walla counties, according to the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology).
The Stage 1 burn bans began Wednesday, Dec. 10, and continued until 10 a.m. today, Dec. 12. 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:
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 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
Cathy Cochrane, Ecology communications manager (Spokane), 509-329-3433
Joye Redfield-Wilder, Ecology communications manager (Yakima), 509-575-2610
Find more information about Residential Burn Bans:
www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/air/outdoor_woodsmoke/Burn_Ban.htm
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
