With the arrival of winter, wood heaters around Tasmania are likely to get a good workout in the coming months. The wood smoke this creates commonly leads poorer air quality, but there are some things you can do to reduce smoke pollution and help your neighbours to breathe easier.

“On still winter days and nights, smoke tends to linger and build up around our towns and neighbourhoods, which is unpleasant and unhealthy so good wood heater operation is important,” says Dr John Innis from EPA Tasmania.

Simply follow these steps to burn your wood heater brighter, warmer and cleaner, this winter:

• Always burn with a flame – don’t let your fire smoulder
• After reloading, open the air control and burn your fire on high for 20 minutes, especially before going to bed
• Only burn dry, seasoned wood
• Ensure your flue is clean

For more on how to use your wood heater responsibly, visit the EPA website for program information and resources.

You can also contact Council’s Environmental Health unit for more information.