Kootenai Tribe issues air quality advisory, burn ban

The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho issued an air quality advisory Thursday as well as a ban on open burning on the tribal reservation due to elevated pollution levels.

The advisory is prompted by numerous wildfires burning across Washington, Idaho and Canada. Weather forecasts indicate poor air quality is expected to persist for the next four days.

The burn ban applies to all outdoor burning — including agricultural, camping and recreational fires — within the external boundaries of the reservation, regardless of land ownership or tribal membership.

Residents are encouraged to reduce additional sources of air pollution, such as automobile exhaust, as much as possible.

Wildfire smoke is more than an irritant and can have long-lasting effects on health, Kootenai Tribe officials said. Sensitive groups should avoid outdoor exercise and limit exposure to outdoor air. These groups include older adults, children, pregnant individuals and those with heart or lung conditions.

To check air quality conditions in your area, visit the EPA AirNow website. For tips on protecting yourself before, during and after wildfire smoke exposure, see the AirNow Wildfires page.