As winter approaches and the chill sets in, woodfires are crackling back to life in homes across Eurobodalla. While many argue there is nothing like the cosy warmth from a wood heater, how you burn makes a difference – not just to your own comfort and health but to that of your neighbours and the environment.
Senior environmental health officer Tim Neenan says Eurobodalla Council receives numerous complaints about smoky fires every winter.
"Mostly, it comes down to how a fire is lit and what's being burned. The good news? Just a few small changes can clear the air between disgruntled neighbours," he says.
"Choose small dry logs – unseasoned or wet wood is a major culprit for smoky fires – and go heavy on kindling to start your fire roaring quickly. When you add another log, crank open those air controls to ensure the wood burns cleaner, reducing smoke.
Mr Neenan says another big contributor to smoke pollution is chimney creosote.
"It's the sticky black gunk that blocks airflow and will often cause smoke to puff back into your room. It can even cause dangerous chimney fires, so get it cleaned out each year. Keep your fire burning bright and clean without smoky side effects – your lungs, and your neighbours, will thank you.
