Burn barrels are illegal in Washington due to the significant health and environmental hazards they pose, primarily stemming from the toxic smoke they produce.
The Dangers of Burn Barrels
Burning waste in barrels creates smoke that is far more harmful than typical outdoor fires. This is because burn barrels often lack sufficient oxygen and burn at lower temperatures, leading to incomplete combustion of diverse materials, including plastics, treated wood, and household waste.
The primary reasons burn barrels are prohibited include:
- Toxic Smoke Production: Fires in burn barrels generate highly toxic smoke. This smoke contains a hazardous mix of pollutants, including dioxins, furans, arsenic, lead, mercury, and carbon monoxide. These substances are known carcinogens and can cause a range of severe health problems.
- Low-Lying Smoke: The smoke from burn barrels tends to stay low to the ground. This characteristic increases the likelihood of human exposure, as it can easily drift into neighboring properties and homes.
- Significant Health Risks: Exposure to this toxic, ground-level smoke is detrimental to health. It can lead to or worsen respiratory issues like asthma and bronchitis, cause eye and throat irritation, and contribute to long-term health problems, including cancer, nervous system damage, and kidney and liver damage.
| Key Concern | Description |
|---|---|
| Toxic Smoke | Incomplete combustion of varied waste materials (plastics, paper, garden waste) creates a dangerous cocktail of pollutants harmful to human health and the environment. |
| Ground-Level Drift | Unlike many natural fires, smoke from burn barrels often remains close to the ground, increasing the risk of inhalation and exposure to nearby residents and sensitive populations. |
| Public Health Risk | Inhaling this smoke can lead to immediate symptoms like respiratory irritation and long-term health complications, including chronic diseases and developmental issues in children. |
Legal Status and Reporting
Across Washington State, burn barrels are explicitly illegal. The state's strict air quality regulations aim to protect public health and the environment from harmful pollutants. Residents are encouraged to responsibly manage their waste through permitted alternatives like composting, recycling, or approved waste disposal services.
If you observe illegal burning or if smoke from burning activities is affecting your property or air quality, it is important to report these issues to the appropriate local authorities or the Washington State Department of Ecology. Reporting helps ensure compliance with air quality regulations and protects community health.
