With more wildfire smoke billowing in from British Columbia, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency has reissued an air quality burn ban, set to begin at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8 for Kitsap, King, Pierce and Snohomish counties.

With high pressure forcing more smoke into the Puget Sound area, officials with the agency are forecasting levels of smoke which would be “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” The purpose of the ban is to reduce any additional harm to sensitive groups of people due to excess air pollution and is in addition to already existing fire safety burn bans.

Banned burning includes:

– Charcoal Barbecues or similar solid fuel devices;

– Fire pits, chimneys, fire bowls or similar free-standing devices;

– Campfires or bonfires;

– Fireplaces, uncertified wood stoves, or uncertified inserts;

– Agricultural fires; and

– Native American ceremonial fire permits will not be granted outside of tribal lands.

It is still OK to use natural gas and propane grills, stoves or inserts during a Stage 1 burn ban.

Children, women who are pregnant, the elderly and people with heart or breathing problems are advised to avoid physical exertion outdoors. If possible, officials recommended seeking air-conditioned environments like public libraries, “cooling centers” and community centers.

Visit pscleanair.org/burnban to view the current burn ban status.