Ecology expands, extends burn ban for Stevens County

Washington State Department of Ecology

Department of Ecology News Release - November 17, 2008

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OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) is continuing and expanding a burn ban on unnecessary use of all types of wood stoves, inserts and fireplaces, and on all outdoor burning.

Stagnant air is trapping pollution in the area. 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 has expanded the burn ban to Stage 2 for Stevens County. The ban will continue until 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19. Under a Stage 2 ban:

Use of all types of fireplaces, wood stoves and inserts is prohibited unless they are a home’s sole source of heat.
All outdoor burning – including residential, agricultural and forest burning – is prohibited.

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.

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Media Contact: Seth Preston, Ecology communications manager, 360-407-6848; 360-584-5744 cell; spre461@ecy.wa.gov