Wood smoke can add to air pollution
Health officials recommend people check air quality before using their fireplaces.
OLYMPIA - Gathering round the fire is a time-honored tradition in winter, but sometimes that fire will add to winter air pollution problems, according to the state Department of Health.
"The smoke from wood fires can be a health hazard for some people. Wood smoke and other air pollutants can be trapped near the ground when winter air patterns cause periods of stagnant air," according to a DOH statement.
That can cause problems for people, especially people with compromised breathing systems, the very young and the very old. "People most sensitive to air pollution are infants and children, adults 65 and older and those who suffer from respiratory infections, heart and lung (including asthma) disease, or have a history of stoke or diabetes," the Department of Health said.
"Sensitive people may have problems sooner and at lower levels of air pollution," the press release said. "The level of air pollution that causes health problems is different for each person. A simple activity such as taking a walk or walking the dog may cause problems for some people."
Outdoor activities should be postponed until air quality improves, the press release said.
There are times when air quality is so bad that officials recommend (or prohibit) using wood unless that's the only source of heat. One way to lessen the amount of pollutants released through a wood fire is to make sure the wood is ready to burn, according to a information from the state Department of Ecology.
Firewood should be covered or otherwise kept dry. "Wet firewood boils when it burns. Wet firewood also make a smoky fire with little heat, and wastes wood," the press release said.
"Wood that has been split, dried and stored under cover for at least six months usually burns best," the press release said. People who buy wood, rather than cut their own, should ask how long it's been curing, and at least six months is a good answer. There are meters that measure moisture in wood; the goal should be less than 20 percent moisture content.