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Reduce the haze: wood heater rebate available

CITY of Fremantle residents have until August 31 to receive a $150 rebate from the Department of Environment & Conservation - if they get rid of their wood heaters at a designated disposal site.

Each year during winter, many people use their wood heater for warmth. However if it is not used correctly then it can contribute to public health problems and environmental damage.

Wood smoke can be a nuisance to neighbours when it blows into their property. It is also a pollutant that can adversely affect our health. It contains very small airborne particles that can be trapped in our lungs when we breathe. These fine particles can aggravate respiratory illnesses such as asthma and emphysema and also affect people with heart conditions. Elderly people and very young children are also at risk.

The Department of Environment and Conservation has conducted research that confirms the brown/grey haze over Perth, most commonly seen in winter, is caused by smoke produced by incorrectly-operated domestic wood heaters.

It is very easy to ensure that your wood heater does not produce excessive smoke. A wood heater should generally only be smoky for the first 10 minutes after lighting - and then only a small amount of smoke will be produced.

Some tips to remember:
* Dry firewood produces less smoke and also generates more heat. 
* Start your fire with the air control fully open. 
*  Use kindling and small logs to ensure it gets hot quickly. After that, larger logs can be added. 
* Don’t overload the heater with firewood. This will reduce air flow and cause more smoke.
* Clean your chimney flue annually to prevent a build-up of soot that can catch fire, reduce air-flow and affect the efficiency of the woodheater.

The Department of Environment & Conservation has produced a brochure, Halt the Haze – Store Right, Burn Bright, Breathe Alright, explaining how to use your heater properly. A copy of the brochure can be obtained by clicking HERE or calling Environmental Health Services on 9432 9856.

The Wood Heater Rebate Application form can be obtained by clicking HERE or calling Environmental Health Services on 9432 9856. A list of designated disposal sites for wood heaters is listed on the application form. Please note that the City of Fremantle does not run the program so if you have any questions contact the Department of Environment & Conservation on 1300 886 162.