Resources
-
Have your stove and chimney inspected and cleaned annually
Use seasoned wood (below 20% moisture)
Burn only firewood. Do not burn driftwood or treated lumber
Do not use flammable materials such as lighter fluid to start fires
Keep combustible items clear of wood stove
Have a fire extinguisher handy
To prevent creosote buildup, choose a hardwood over softwood
Use local wood to avoid spreading disease and invasive pests
When disposing of ashes, be certain they are cold to avoid fires
If used properly, wood stoves are safer and more efficient than fireplaces
Follow town ordinances regarding proper burning practices
-
This month (November) brings attention to the risks associated with carbon monoxide (CO) and the potential of your wood-burning appliances poisoning you without warning. Although the risk from wood heat is low, it is another important reason to take action if an elevated amount of wood smoke enters your home. A functioning flue vents the smoke from your fireplace or wood stove to the outside. A blocked or nonfunctioning flue causes smoke to enter your home and exposes you and others to toxic carbon monoxide in addition to other toxic gases and particulate matter pollution.
Remember:
Regularly sweep and inspect your chimney for damage!
Store hot ash in your ash can outside as they can be a source of CO!
Install a CO alarm in your home and test that it works every month!
From the National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association https://www.ncoaa.us/
-
For those seeking firewood who are outside of the towns in the Downeast Wood Bank service area, or those seeking to purchase firewood:
Waldo County Wood Shed https://waldocountywoodshed.org/
H.O.M.E. Orland https://homemmausa.org/
Other wood banks in Maine https://midcoastwoodbank.org/resources
Gary Jordan Firewood https://www.facebook.com/garyjordanfirewoodmaine/
-
University of Maine National Wood Bank Project https://extension.umaine.edu/community/firewood-banks/resources/
Maine Wood Banks Network https://woodbanks.org/