QVHD responds to complaints concerning wood smoke. . Open burning can create nuisance odors and smoke that may adversely affect some people with respiratory problems. There are some rules you can follow to burn wiser and safer which will help you to prevent creating a nuisance.

•  Always check with the fire marshal in your town about the rules for burning. Some district towns require permits for bonfires and certain types of campfires.

• Limit the size of your fires and try to set it away from your neighbor’s house, especially from their windows.

• Burn only clean, non-processed wood that has been seasoned. Wet or green wood produces more smoke.  Do not burn wood pallets, construction debris, painted wood, stained/treated wood, plastic, Styrofoam, furniture, leaves, dung or garbage. (Non-processed wood is defined as any untreated natural wood.) If you purchase manufactured logs, choose those made from 100% compressed sawdust (EPA recommendation.)

• Small hot fires produce less smoke than smoldering fires.

• Avoid burning on poor air quality days.

• Remember personal safety when burning. Always supervise your fire. Do not let it burn overnight.