For those who have indoor fireplaces or outdoor firepits, it’s the time of year to get cozy in front of a nice roaring fire.

However, officials from the Maricopa County Air Quality Department and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality want to remind residents that wood-burning fireplaces and chimineas often are the primary culprits in creating smoke during the winter that violate state and federal health standards.

These conditions pose a serious health threat to children with asthma, the elderly and those with respiratory issues. The particles can be absorbed into the blood stream and decrease lung function, exacerbate bronchitis and asthma and increase chances for heart attacks and premature death.

Residents are reminded to be aware when MCAQD issues “No Burn Days” and to not light wood-burning fires on those days. To find out if it is a No Burn day, go to www.CleanAirMakeMore.com, download the Clean Air Make More app, or call 602-506-6400.

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