Experts have warned that doing one thing when using a wood-burner could put your health at risk. One common fear, Adam Oldfield and his team of experts at StovesAreUs explain, is that the smoke from a stove can be harmful to homeowners when inhaled.
The main risk comes from burning wet or unseasoned wood, which produces more smoke and can increase the release of harmful particles, they add.
The specialists said: “For this reason, wood-stove owners should only burn fuel that is specially designed for the stove, such as wooden briquettes, pellets, or pre-dried logs.”
They then advised: “Do not burn wood that has been treated or painted, as these can release hazardous fumes.”
Brits are encouraged to read DEFRA’s Burn Better guidelines. In addition to these, Woodsure, a wood-fuel quality assurance scheme, provides another trusted source of guidance, helping consumers identify safe, clean and efficient fuel, StovesAreUs highlighted.
The company added: “When purchasing logs, look out for the Woodsure ‘Ready to Burn’ badge, which confirms the wood has a moisture content below 20% and meets strict environmental standards.
“Using fuel certified by Woodsure not only reduces smoke and harmful emissions but also improves stove efficiency and overall home safety.”
It comes as proposals were outlined by the Government with a consultation to take place on reducing the environmental impact of domestic wood burning – such as through bonfires or wood burners.
Officials say this will be done while minimising how this might affect those who need to do so and respecting traditional celebratory festivals such as Bonfire Night and Diwali.
With a new target to cut exposure to PM2.5 – a fine particulate pollutant linked to asthma, lung disease and heart conditions – by 30% by 2030 compared to 2018 levels, the Government outlined a series of actions, which include the consultation on domestic combustion of wood.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said earlier this month: ”Our environment faces real challenges, with pollution in our waterways, air quality that’s too low in many areas, and treasured species in decline.
“This plan marks a step change in restoring nature.
“Our ambitious targets are backed by real action to cut harmful air pollutants, revive habitats and protect the environment for generations to come.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
