OLYMPIA – Washington residents who want to burn debris from recent floods and storms should contact the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) or their local clean air agency for rules and permit information.

In counties where a state of emergency has been declared, permits can be issued so residents can burn natural vegetation left on the land by storms or floods. Debris must be burned by the property owner or a designee on the same land where it was deposited, according to Washington law.

It’s illegal to burn anything other than natural vegetation for disposal. Permits for burning woody storm debris may be issued if no other alternatives are available. Here’s how to find information on disposing of debris without burning:

* County-by-county clickable map on recycling and composting providers:

http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/air/outdoor_woodsmoke/recycling/AQSolidwaste_Mapbe.pdf

* More information and a list of contacts for Ecology offices and local

air agencies: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/pubs/0702002.pdf

* What to do instead of burning:http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/air/outdoor_woodsmoke/alternativestoburn.htm

Smoke from outdoor fires is made up of fine particles and a toxic mix of other carcinogens that are hazardous to human health. Improperly burning wet materials produces a lot of smoke. Fine particles are easily inhaled into lungs. Once there, they can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems, including premature death. People with asthma and respiratory illnesses, children and the elderly are particularly at risk.