State urges residents to trade burn barrels for compost bins
July 13, 2010
By Staff
NEW — 6 a.m. July 13, 2010
Ditch the burn barrel.
The state Department of Natural Resources urges residents to swap the barrels for compost bins, because state law bans the barrels statewide.
Plus, the agency said outdoor burning remains the leading cause of wildfire ignitions. Learn steps to prevent wildfires here.
Smoke from the barrels also lowers air quality and causes breathing problems in certain people, including seniors and people suffering from chronic illnesses. The agency said smoke from outdoor burning can be just as bad for health as cigarette smoke.
Report air quality and smoke complaints to the toll-free, 24-hour hotline maintained by the state Department of Ecology at 866-211-6284.
Instead of burning yard waste, the Department of Ecology recommends chipping, composting or curbside pickup. Or residents can haul waste to collection centers. Find a list of King County yard waste collection locations here.
Comments
Got something to say?
Before you comment, please note:
- These comments are moderated.
- Comments should be relevant to the topic at hand and contribute to its discussion.
- Personal attacks and/or excessive profanity will not be tolerated and such comments will not be approved.
- This is not your personal chat room or forum, so please stay on topic.
