Yarra Ranges Council is encouraging owners of wood fire heaters to reduce smoke in the community this winter.
The council said smoke pollution caused by woodfire heaters can impact the health and comfort levels of community members, and the issue is heightened this winter due to COVID-19 and influenza rates.
Community members most vulnerable to smoke pollution include those with heart or lung problems, pregnant women, young children, the elderly and smokers.
Deputy Mayor Johanna Skelton, said that reducing air pollution in Yarra Ranges was everyone’s responsibility.
“Many councils have banned wood heaters due to the health impacts on their residents, but for many of our residents wood heaters are still the most affordable and convenient way to keep warm,” she said.
“What we’re trying to do is spread the word on best practice wood heater use for those who still need to use them.”
Yarra Ranges council suggested residents prioritising alternative heat sources, ensure their wood heater meets Australian standards and fitted by a licensed installer, making sure the flue and baffle plate are clean before each winter, ensure the wood being used is dry and seasoned, leave around 2cm of ash at the base, when setting your fire and using plenty of paper and dry kindling instead of large pieces of wood to start your fire.
“I also encourage our community to look into other ways of heating their home and to engage with their neighbours about any problematic woodfire heater smoke,” Deputy Mayor Skelton said.
“They may not know how much you are impacted by, or vulnerable to the smoke, and may be open to hearing some of the tips and tricks that the EPA recommend.
Yarra Ranges Council’s Public and Environmental Health team have recently partnered with the EPA to support a community-led action plan for smoke in Yarra Ranges.
“The project involved engaging with a number of local residents, passionate about air quality, who assisted in working on actions that the community can take to produce better outcomes for air quality in the Yarra Ranges,” Cr Skelton said.
“Our Public and Environmental Health Team have also updated their processes for investigating woodfire heater complaints and have been working with DELWP to advocate for better legislation and education options for the future. I hope this helps reduce illness for Yarra Ranges residents.”
For more information on air quality issues in Yarra Ranges: www.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Environment/Burning-off/Wood-heaters-burning-off-and-air-quality.
