Don't Light Tonight in Effect Monday Through Midnight

Don't Light Tonight is a voluntary wintertime air pollution reduction program. Today matter pollution (PM 2.5) is forecast to be 25 micrograms per cubic meter or higher and burning wood is discouraged.

On winter nights when inversion layers are strong and air pollution levels are high, woodsmoke from residential fires can create a significant portion of the particle pollution in urban areas. If you must burn wood to heat your home, use an EPA certified appliance (fireplace insert, woodstove or pellet-fueled device) and follow these guidelines:

• Never burn trash, newspapers, magazines or painted wood
• Build small, hot fires instead of large smoldering ones and give your fire a generous air supply
• Use only dry, seasoned wood.  Plan ahead. Buy green wood in early spring so it will season by winter and keep it covered while stored.
• And remember to have your chimney periodically inspected and cleaned professionally for your family's safety.
• Install a natural gas insert or appropriately sized EPA-certified wood or pellet stove. Do not install an EPA exempt appliance - they are prohibited from installation in the District.

By cooperating with an occasional Don’t Light Tonight request, everyone can make a significant contribution to improving air quality.