Open fires and wood-burning or multi-fuel stoves have risen in popularity over recent years. There are many benefits for users but burning at home contributes to a type of pollutant called fine particulate matter. This is present in smoke and the tiny particles can harm the health of people that breath it in.
Some simple measures can be taken to lower any negative impacts of home burning. These can reduce pollution released inside people's homes and to the wider environment. They can also lead to lower costs, by using less fuel, and reduce the risk of chimney fires.
Councillor Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Environment said "We all breathe the same air, with the rise in popularity of open fires and wood-burning stoves in homes it is important that people can easily find information that helps them to use them safely. These measures can also help Bedford Borough residents save money, reduce the risks of fires in homes and lower their impact on the environment."
People who are already using an open fire or wood-burning stove at home, or anyone considering installing one, will need to understand which fuels and stoves can be used. This information, along with other relevant regulations, can be found at https://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/library/burnbetter/.
Find a practical guide to open fires and wood-burning stoves at https://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/assets/documents/reports/cat09/1901291307_Ready_to_Burn_Web.pdf