A ban on outdoor burning in Pierce County has been lifted by the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. The ban was in effect for all or parts of five days, beginning Nov. 30 and ending Jan. 3. Stagnant air improved with the help of rain and wind, and with more wind and rain in the forecast, air conditions were expected to remain healthful, officials said. The ban, which also was issued in King and Snohomish counties, was in effect until further notice in order to reduce the amount of pollution that creating unhealthy air, usually due to excessive wood smoke. The Clean Air Agency continued to closely monitor the situation, a spokesman said. During a Stage 1 burn ban: " No burning is allowed in wood-burning fireplaces, uncertified wood stoves or fireplace inserts. Residents should rely instead on their home's other, cleaner source of heat (such as their furnace or electric baseboard heaters) for a few days until air quality improves, the public health risk diminishes and the ban is cancelled. The only exception is if the homeowner has a previously approved "No Other Adequate Source of Heat' designation from the Clean Air Agency " No outdoor fires are allowed. This includes recreational fires such as bonfires, campfires and the use of fire pits and chimineas. Burn ban violations are subject to a $1,000 penalty. Natural-gas and propane stoves or inserts can be used during a Stage 1 burn ban. The state Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution limit time spent outdoors, especially when exercising. Air pollution can trigger asthma attacks, cause difficulty breathing, and make lung and heart problems worse. Air pollution is especially harmful to people with lung and heart problems, people with diabetes, children, and older adults (over age 65).
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