LAS VEGAS — Clark County is asking residents to share how they use fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, firepits and grills through a new study focused on residential smoke.
The Division of Air Quality has launched the BURN Survey, short for Burn Use in Residential Neighborhoods. The survey will collect information about wood-burning habits across the Las Vegas Valley and help officials better understand their effect on Southern Nevada’s air.
What the BURN Survey Will Measure
The study asks residents when, where and how often they burn wood at home. It also seeks details about the fireplaces, stoves, grills, outdoor firepits and similar equipment used throughout local neighborhoods.
Clark County selected environmental consulting firm ERG to conduct the survey. The results will give Air Quality a broader picture of residential burning and help the division evaluate it as a potential source of local air pollution.
Why Residential Smoke Matters
Wood smoke contains gases and fine particles that can travel deep into the respiratory system. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, those particles may irritate the eyes and lungs, worsen asthma symptoms and create added risks for people with heart or lung conditions.
Children, older adults and people with asthma or other respiratory illnesses may be especially sensitive to smoke. However, the county’s survey is focused on collecting local information rather than drawing conclusions before residents respond.
Southern Nevada presents unique air-quality challenges because of its dry climate, growing population and sprawling residential areas. Fireplaces and outdoor fire features may not operate every day, but their combined use can still contribute to neighborhood smoke during cooler months and social gatherings.
Residents Encouraged to Participate
Clark County encourages residents to participate if they own or use a wood-burning fireplace, stove, grill, outdoor firepit or similar device. Responses will help researchers understand how burning practices differ across homes and neighborhoods.
The BURN Survey remains open through Monday, Nov. 23. Residents can complete it online at bit.ly/daqburnsurvey.
Participation gives residents a direct role in the county’s air-quality research. Strong community response will provide a clearer and more representative account of local wood-burning activity, allowing officials to work with better information as they study pollution sources and consider future air-quality planning. Clark County residents who use residential burning equipment can participate online now, but they should submit their responses before Nov. 23.
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