Wood is a common source to heat homes in Grey and Bruce Counties. It has many positive qualities, but it does require some special knowledge to use efficiently and safely.
Wood is a renewable resource, which is good for the environment.
Wood burning can also be good for the economy because it is cheaper for the homeowner and if bought locally, it adds to our local economy.
As most wood burning stoves run without electricity, it can make a home self-sufficient during power outages. However, combustion in woodstoves is not as complete as oil or gas furnaces therefore, they can create indoor and outdoor air pollution. Smoke created from the burning of wood can contain toxic chemicals including carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Exposure to any of these may lead to serious health effects.
Carbon monoxide can reduce the amount of oxygen carried by the blood to various parts of the body, which can lead to death. Exposure to nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter can harm the respiratory system and make existing respiratory problems worse. Particulate matter is made up liquid and solid particles suspended in air, which can be inhaled into the lungs. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of chemicals that can be inhaled, ingested or absorbed by skin contact. These chemicals may cause cancer and exposure to them should be avoided.You can ensure that your wood burning stove provides a safe source of heat for your home and your family by selecting an appropriate type and size of stove. Choose a stove with advanced technology that is certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as clean burning. Use a proper chimney that is cleaned regularly. Avoid smoldering fires and burn only seasoned firewood, split to the appropriate size. Do not burn plastic, garbage, cardboard, painted/treated wood or plywood because they may give off harmful chemicals.
For more information, call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, or visit our website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
