As we near the end of the cold season and wood piles start to run low, residents are reminded that the type of wood you use makes a big difference. While wood heaters provide comfort, the smoke they produce can pollute the air we all breathe.

Even brief exposure to wood smoke can affect people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, young children and older adults. Smoke from wood heaters releases fine particles and gases that penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, potentially worsening existing health conditions and impacting the wider community.

Mayor Cr John White said, “By burning the right wood and taking simple steps to reduce smoke, we can all enjoy warm homes while protecting the health of our families and neighbours. Every small change helps make our air cleaner and safer. Simple actions like using dry wood, maintaining heaters and considering alternative heating not only warm our homes but also protect the health of our community.”

You can help reduce wood smoke by using only dry, seasoned and untreated wood, and by never burning plastics, painted timber or treated timber. Keep your fires hot and avoid smouldering overnight, and make sure your wood heater and flue are serviced each year. Where possible, consider alternative heating options such as reverse-cycle air conditioning, and reduce heat loss in your home by sealing draughts, closing unused rooms and checking insulation.

If smoke from a neighbour’s heater is a concern, try talking to them first, or report it to East Gippsland Shire Council. For more information about wood heaters, visit East Gippsland Shire Council’s website.