A COUNCIL is asking people to cut down on the usage of "nuisance" wood burners and fireplaces this winter.
Brighton and Hove City Council are concerned over the damage that can be caused to air quality.
There are also worries that wood burners can be "nuisances to neighbours" and impact people's health inside and outside the home.
Councillor Sue Shanks said: “Wood burning stoves are popular, but people will not have realised the health implications for themselves and fellow residents.
"I would ask everyone to consider the health and wellbeing of people in the city.
“The smoke from these fires harms the quality of our air which impacts on the health of everyone, especially those with respiratory problems.
“We need to do everything we can to improve the air quality in our city and reduce the number of premature deaths caused by air pollution.”
The World Health Organisation estimates that air pollution has been responsible for 50,000 premature deaths in the UK and 175 in Brighton and Hove.
The pollution that is created by burning wood can impact those with underlying health conditions, deep coughs, Covid, smokers, and those with poor housing and inactive lifestyles.
Brighton and Hove has a number of Smoke Control Areas (SCA) declared under the Clean Air Act, covering much of Hanover, Bevendean, Lewes Road and city centre areas.
In these areas, residents can only burn approved, smokeless fuels.
If this guidance is not followed by people, then they may be committing an offence.
Wherever you live in the city, Brighton and Hove Council is urging for alternative heating options to be used in order to avoid gas and smoke that may cause nuisance and poor air quality across your neighbourhood.
If people are considering lighting a fire indoors or out, read and follow the advice about using solid fuels and smoke on the council website.
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