This time of year is wet and chilly and there's nothing nicer than cozying up next to a roaring fire. When it comes to wood burning stoves or fireplaces, there are some things you can do to ensure you are "burning smart" and cutting down on the amount of smoke coming out of your chimney. Burning smart improves air quality which is good for the environment and our lung health.
Here are a few things you can do to Burn it Smart:
- Burn dry, seasoned hardwood.
- Store cut wood somewhere sheltered from the rain and snow.
- Start your fire using kindling then add larger pieces of wood as needed.
- Don't let your fire smolder.
- Never burn garbage, plastics, cardboard or Styrofoam.
- Don't burn wood from beaches or that has been pressure-treated or painted.
- Have your woodstove inspected and cleaned at least once per year.
- Keep your stove pipe and chimney clean.
- Upgrade to a high-efficiency woodstove, fireplace or insert that is certified as CSA B-415 or US EPA certified.
These tips and more can be found on the BC Lung Association website.
Starting January 22, you may be eligible to receive a $250 rebate from the City of Nanaimo when you change out your old woodstove or fireplace insert with a new one. For more information check out the Woodstove Changeout Program page on the City website.
