20 June 2018
Bega Valley residents are being asked to help improve air quality this winter by checking that they are using their wood heaters correctly.
Council’s Environmental Health Cadet, Amanda McKenna, said during winter smoke from wood heaters can cause concerns for people with health conditions such as asthma, as well as the elderly and very young children.
“These issues can be significantly aggravated by the incorrect operation of wood heaters,” Ms McKenna said.
“Smoky chimneys can be a real problem across the Shire during winter, with wood smoke from chimneys producing a haze that can become trapped over built up areas.
“On cold clear days, wood smoke particles from ineffective heaters float in the air and can be seen sitting over the Valley.
“We’re encouraging all residents with wood heaters to go outside and check their chimneys – ideally chimneys should not vent any smoke, just a heat haze.
“It’s the responsibility of all wood heater owners to follow the easy steps listed below and minimise the harmful effects of smoke pollution on their neighbours and the environment.” Ms McKenna said.
There are simple steps that can be taken to reduce pollution from wood heaters:
Council staff will be providing individually targeted information this winter to operators of inefficiently operating wood heaters.
For more information on how you can help to reduce wood smoke pollution, contact Council or visit the NSW EPA’s website http://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/woodsmoke/cando.htm.
Photograph: Smoke haze cloaks the Bemboka township.