June 2, 2000 – In some areas of Montreal, wood heating has become a major source of air pollution during winter. The small romantic fireplace where a few logs are burnt, or the “wood stove” which is used as an auxiliary heating source, emit a number of pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, respirable particles and volatile organic compounds. . Result: the air is more polluted in suburban neighborhoods than in downtown Montreal.
According to Dr. Louis Drouin, head of the environmental health unit at the Direction de la santé publique de Montréal-Center, wood heating emits a lot of breathable particles that enter deep into the lungs and irritating and toxic gaseous substances. These substances may increase the frequency and severity of asthma attacks in children or the elderly with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Following the ice storm of January 1998, many people bought a “wood stove” in the event of an electrical failure, and also use it for the ambience effect it provides. In addition, several high-end condominiums come with wood-burning fireplaces. So prosperity is creating another side effect which is slowly becoming a public nuisance.
The Directorate of Public Health is currently completing a study that will measure exposure to pollutants both inside and outside homes, as it is suspected that wood heating also causes deterioration of the air inside. interior of houses.
HealthPassport.net
According to Medical News, May 24, 2000
