Air quality authorities are making it official. Christmas Eve is a no burn day in Maricopa County. Spokesman Bob Huhn says that means wood-burning fireplaces and stoves are not to be used, due to atmospheric conditions that are expected to trap pollutants close to the ground.

“You know no one likes putting a damper on the celebrations this time of the year but we can’t ignore the real health impact our activities have on our neighbors’ health,” Huhn said.

He says special patrols will be out to make sure the no-burn restrictions are followed.  And, he says people who violate the ban on wood-burning could face fines.