Leaf-burning ban a healthful necessity

's apparent the East Dundee residents who are against a proposed ban on leaf burning do not have any friends or relatives who have breathing problems.If they did, they would be the first to demand that the village ban all leaf- and yard waste-burning immediately.To get a sense of how a person with asthma feels while having an attack, imagine being held underwater and trying to get to the surface to get a gulp of air.Leaf smoke is particularly dangerous because it is released at ground level, unlike a fireplace, which, while still polluting, is above our head and lungs and affects our air less.Smoke from burning leaves and wood may seem harmless, but it's as dangerous as cigarette smoke, and can contribute to birth defects, cancer and lung disease.The smoke is composed of fine particles and a toxic mix of other carcinogens that are hazardous to human health, and the tiny size of these pollutants allows them to be easily inhaled, bypassing the immune system and proceeding deep into your lungs, where they can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems, including premature death.Is your burning more important than someone having an asthma attack, getting cancer or lung problems?West Dundee and Carpentersville have banned burning.Why is East Dundee allowed to pollute their town with the smoke?Help pass the ordinance to ban burning. It won't happen without your help.Please contact village hall at (847) 426-2822.Or e-mail Village President Dan O'Leary at doleary@eastdundee.net or Trustee Mike Ruffulo at mruffulo@eastdundee.net.Candy CowanEast Dundee