As temperatures drop and wood heaters fire up across the community, it's important to remember that excessive smoke can impact the health and comfort of your neighbours.
Wood smoke can affect local air quality and may trigger respiratory conditions such as asthma and other breathing difficulties. A properly operated wood heater should produce little to no visible smoke, apart from a short period when first being lit.
To reduce smoke and improve efficiency:
• Start your fire with dry kindling and the air intake fully open
• Burn only dry, seasoned firewood
• Never burn green, wet, treated or painted timber
• Keep the air intake open while the heater is operating, including overnight
• Maintain a bright, hot fire rather than allowing it to smoulder
The State Government has developed a range of helpful brochures on purchasing, operating and maintaining wood heaters to help reduce smoke emissions and improve heating efficiency.
For more information or assistance, please contact the Shire's Health Services team.