Wed October 17, 2012 Earth Calendar for October 17th and October
18th The distinctive smell of wood smoke is a sign of the
heating season. It may smell good, but wood smoke can impact
indoor air quality and health. Smoke is a mixture of tiny
particles and gasses produced when wood burns-the fine particles
can get into eyes and lungs, where they aggravate COPD,
bronchitis and asthma. Using “best burn practices” at home will
help minimize wood smoke and protect your health: Only use
seasoned wood for burning-seasoned wood looks darker, has cracks
in the ends and sounds hollow if smacked against another piece
of wood. Use newspaper and dry kindling to start a fire. Never
use gasoline, kerosene, charcoal starter or a propane start.
Build hot fires which are safer and more efficient than
smoldering fires. Do not burn trash, cardboard, coated or
painted wood, particle board, plywood or wood with glue on it.
Burning these materials can release harmful chemicals. If you
burn wood at home, even occasionally, install s