Citing weather conditions and raised air pollution levels, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency issued a stage 2 burn ban for King County, effective noon Wednesday, Nov. 19. The ban is in effect until 6 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20.

The weather front expected this evening is showing rain and winds that will clear the air. However, daytime winds will not be sufficient to significantly reduce pollution levels in King County, especially in areas where wood burning is common.

The purpose of a burn ban is to reduce the amount of pollution that is creating unhealthy air usually due to excessive wood smoke.

During a Stage 2 burn ban, no burning is allowed in any wood-burning fireplaces, certified or 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.

Burn ban violations are subject to a $1,000 penalty.

It is OK to use natural gas and propane stoves or inserts during a Stage 2 burn ban.

The Washington 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.

For information, visit the agency’s Burn Ban Status page and download a mobile app, Burn Ban 411.