(FOX40.COM) — The Sacramento Metropolitan Air Quality Management District is launching its annual Check Before You Burn restriction for the county season beginning Nov. 1 through the end of February.
Residents and businesses in Sacramento County are required to check the daily burn status before using wood-burning fireplaces, stoves or other solid-fuel heating devices.
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The Sac Metro Air District said it restricts the burning of these items when fine particle pollution is expected to reach unhealthy levels.
“Wood burning during the winter months contributes to more than 50 percent of the fine particle pollution in Sacramento County,” officials with the Sac Metro Air District said. “Similar to wildfire smoke, wood smoke contains tiny toxic particles that can enter the bloodstream when inhaled, posing serious health risks. Children, older adults, and individuals with heart or lung conditions are especially vulnerable.”
Officials explained that exposure to wood smoke can increase the risk of asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes and other respiratory or cardiovascular problems.
Go online to check before you burn or call the burn status hotline at 1-877-662-8765.
Those who see or smell smoke on a day when burning is prohibited are asked to contact the Sac Metro Air District at 279-207-1122 ext. 11 or make a complaint online.
Those who violate Check Before You Burn for the first time will have to pay a $50 fine or complete a wood smoke awareness exam. Repeated violators risk a higher penalty.
Natalie Sierra
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