It’s that time of the year again when people are lighting fireplaces or woodstoves to keep warm and enjoy the nice feeling of comfort a fire can bring. But there are many negative effects to your health and the environment accompanied by wood-burning. Check out the weblinks below to find out more.
If you are going to burn wood, please be responsible and follow these guidelines.
WOOD BURNING GUIDELINES:
How you operate and maintain you wood-burning appliance determines its combustion efficiency and the amount of air pollution it produces. Here are some tips for reducing the health risks and environmental impacts of burning wood to heat your home:
* Split the wood. Wood dries best and burns more efficiently if the pieces are three and one-half to six inches in diameter.
* Use small pieces of wood that have been dried and seasoned for at least six months.
* Fuel your fire evenly but not excessively, since larger smoldering fires pollute the air more than smaller hot fires do.
* Leave enough room in the firebox for air to circulate freely around the wood.
* Never burn garbage, trash, treated woods or other highly polluting materials.
* Have your wood-burning appliance and chimney or stovepipe inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. Always remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Some tips for drying wood to get it ready for the fire:
* Cover the wood to protect from rain and weather.
* Store the wood at least six inches off the ground.
* Let it sit for at least six months.
Links for more wood-burning information:
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