To the editor: A reader commented that burning leaves "smells like home." It's obvious leaf burners haven't stopped to consider all the people who have asthma and other lung ailments who can hardly breathe and are kept prisoners in their homes because of the smoke stench.

This, of course, not only endangers people's health, but adds to the pollution of our planet.

I compost my leaves. It renews the soil, and I save money by not buying fertilizer.

The city ought to outlaw leaf burning. It already provides a leaf pickup service. Burning is for someone who hasn't the patience nor consideration to wait for the city crews. I like my air pure.

NORMA SEDLOCK, Registered Nurse, Cape Girardeau