FIRE   Colerain   EMS

OPEN BURNING

COLERAIN TOWNSHIP IS A RESTRICTED AREA. OPEN BURNING IS PROHIBITED.

FOR EXCEPTIONS PLEASE CALL:

FIRE DEPARTMENT'S INSPECTION OFFICE--513-245-6505

HAMILTON COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES--513-946-7779

WHAT IS OPEN BURNING?

    The Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) defines open burning as any outdoor fire. with a few exceptions, most types of open burning are prohibited in Ohio. Open burning worsen the air quality in Southwest Ohio and can have harmful effects on people's health.

WHY IS OPEN BURNING PROHIBITED?

    Open burning releases various harmful pollutants into the air. Exposure to some of these pollutants can lead to breathing difficulties and increased asthma attacks. Dioxin and furans, some of the most toxic compounds known, are also released during open burning.

    Additionally, the increased presence of these pollutants makes the attainment of healthy air quality standards difficult. Open burning not only jeopardizes air quality standards, but also endangers the property and people near the fire. A change in wind direction or uncontrolled sparks can set fire to a building or cause sever bodily injury.

WHAT ARE THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF OPEN BURNING?

1. Open burning produces many airborne pollutants, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter, carbon monoxide and ash residue.

2. Inhaling certain VOCs can lead to eye, nose and throat irritation, headache, loss of coordination, nausea, and damage tot he liver, kidneys and central nervous system.

3. Particulate matter can aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis, and has been associated with cardiac arrhythmias (heartbeat irregularities) and heart attacks. People with heart or lung disease, the elderly and children are at highest risk from exposure to particles.

4. At low levels of exposure to carbon monoxide, humans may experience a variety of neurological symptoms including headache, fatigue, nausea and vomiting.

5. Ash residue can contain poisonous metals such as mercury, lead, chromium and arsenic. These metals can be toxic when ingested. When a person ingests hazardous amounts of lead, for example, he or she may experience high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, kidney damage and brain damage.

WHAT ARE ALTERNATIVES TO OPEN BURNING?

1. Bring leaves, grass clippings, tree trimmings and other yard materials to yard waste drop-off sites in your community.

2. Set up a compost area in your backyard.

3. Participate in curb-side or drop-off recycling program.