Bonner County's air is not very healthy

Besides being downright ugly, the air quality in Bonner County often degrades to unhealthy levels in the fall because of outdoor burning practices. The health risks affect not just those suffering from asthma, but a large portion of the county's population.

When fires burn, smoke containing tiny particles, particulate matter (PM) are released. These particles are inhaled and trapped in the lungs.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare found that there is a direct correlation between outdoor burning and the number of health care visits for respiratory and cardiac illnesses, and acute stroke.

The American Lung Association estimates that in Bonner County, about 5,000 pediatric asthma, adult asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema patients are at risk. Additionally, more than 11,000 people with cardiovascular disease (more than a quarter of the county's population) are also seriously affected. Their exposure to PM can trigger acute stroke, heart attack, and irregular heartbeat.

Besides people with pre-existing medical conditions, children and the elderly are most vulnerable to the effects of PM. Healthy adults can be affected, too, since PM (similar to second-hand smoke) is associated with lung cancer. Recent research links even relatively low PM levels — below EPA standards — to adverse health effects.

We must take ownership of the serious health consequences of outdoor burning. Let's limit commercial burning and mulch or chip our own yard debris. Share your ideas in the Daily Bee.

CSILLA KREILDER

Sandpoint