Communicating the Health Effects of Residential Wood Smoke U.S. Environmental Protection Agency1 Leigh Herrington National Air Quality Conference February 12, 2014
Health Effects of Wood Smoke Wood smoke is made up of a complex mixture of gases and fine particles produced when wood and other organic matter burn. Fine particles (also called particle pollution, particulate matter, or PM) from wood smoke are harmful to your health. In addition to particle pollution, wood smoke contains several other air pollutants including benzene, formaldehyde, acrolein and methane. The particle pollution in wood smoke can affect everyone. Some of the most vulnerable are: –People with certain health conditions such as heart or lung disease or asthma –Older adults –Children and teens U.S. Environmental Protection Agency2
Fine Particle Health Effects Causes watery eyes, stuffy noses, and chest tightness; Irritates the airways causing coughing or difficulty breathing; Decreases lung function; Triggers asthma attacks; May lead to: –Chronic bronchitis; – Irregular heartbeat; – Nonfatal heart attacks; and – Early death in people with heart or lung disease. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency3
Fine Particle Health Effects U.S. Environmental Protection Agency4 Research indicates that obesity or diabetes may increase risk. New or expectant mothers may also want to take precautions to protect the health of their babies. Studies suggest harmful developmental and reproductive effects, such as infant mortality and low birth weight. Some studies also suggest that long-term PM 2.5 exposures may be linked to cancer. Particle Pollution and Health (2012)-
Ways to Help Protect Health Burn dry, seasoned wood that has been split, stacked, covered and stored for 6-12 months. Test wood with a moisture meter (20% moisture or less is best). Use a cleaner-burning gas, pellet or wood stove. Make sure to provide sufficient air to the fire; never let it smolder. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency5
6 Health InfoGraphic Visual message to promote cleaner burning Great for websites, social media and newsletters To download, visit
Wood Smoke and Your Health: Breathe Easier Click here to view the video U.S. Environmental Protection Agency7
Additional Videos U.S. Environmental Protection Agency8 Split, Stack, Cover and Store- Wet Wood is a Waste- The Pledge-
Health Awareness Kit U.S. Environmental Protection Agency9 Burn Wise Infographic Wood Stove and Fireplace Safety Tips to Protect Your Health article Burn Wise Top 20 Social Media Posts Burn Wise Fast Facts Other Wet Wood is a Waste brochure- Public Service Announcements- For State, Tribal and Local Training Reducing Residential Wood Smoke Training Video- Strategies for Reducing Wood Smoke-
Social Media Join us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter U.S. Environmental Protection Agency10
Want More Information? or or U.S. Environmental Protection Agency11