Campaign Highlights Dangers of Indoor Fires and Wood Burners

Residents are being cautioned this winter about the risks associated with operating wood burners and open fires inside their homes. Brighton and Hove City Council’s (BHCC) “Cosy Killer” campaign draws attention to the harmful effects of smoke particles generated from burning solid fuels. The campaign indicates that particle pollution, which heightens the risk of heart attack, stroke, and lung disease, is considered “a contributing factor to one in 20 deaths in people over the age of 30” in the area. Burning wood or coal can lead to a threefold increase in harmful pollutants indoors, with wood producing more small-particle emissions than traffic, according to the campaign. “Cosy Killer” represents BHCC’s subsequent initiative in a revised strategy aimed at improving air quality and addressing the burning of solid fuels locally. Last month, the council introduced a real-time air quality portal, enabling residents to access air quality readings from across the city continuously, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Tim Rowkins, cabinet member for net zero and environmental services, commented: “I strongly believe most people who burn [solid fuel] at home simply aren’t aware of the harm they’re doing.” He further explained that “The smoke particles they produce have very damaging impacts on the health of people both inside and outside the home – especially those with chronic lung conditions like asthma.” Rowkins also acknowledged, “We know for some people, a wood burner is essential for them to be able to heat, but for the vast majority, it’s more of a luxury.” He added that there would be increased enforcement in the city’s smoke control areas.