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Department of Ecology News Release - November 19, 2008
08-303
OLYMPIA – A burn ban on unnecessary use of uncertified wood stoves, inserts and fireplaces has expired as scheduled in Walla Walla County, according to the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology).
The Stage 1 burn ban began Saturday, Nov. 15, and continued until 10 a.m. today, Nov. 19. 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:
“Residents did a good job of heeding the ban and cutting back on unnecessary burning. That helped reduce air pollution in their area,” said Clint Bowman, an Ecology meteorologist.
During these episodes, the Washington State Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution 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, 360-407-6848; 360-584-5744 cell; spre461@ecy.wa.gov
Copyright © Washington State Department of Ecology. See http://www.ecy.wa.gov/copyright.html.
