Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 09:05 pm
The popularity of outdoor fireplaces, built on a metal base and covered with wire mesh, is a cause for concern. Once the preserve of the countryside, outdoor fires are becoming increasingly common in cities, adding a new source of pollution to the urban smog. Not to mention the fact that the use of open fires causes many disputes between neighbors.
Smoke from wood burning contains carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NO2), to name a few harmful elements. “It contains as many carcinogenic substances as a cigarette,” says Louis Drouin of the Montreal Public Health Department. On its website, the Ministry of the Environment suggests limiting fires under the stars.
But few people seem to listen to this message. The warm atmosphere of burning maple and birch logs seems irresistible. As a result, outdoor wood fireplaces, which sell for between 100 and 300 at most hardware stores, are a big hit. “They’re becoming more and more beautiful and popular,” confirms Élise Vaillancourt, marketing director at The Home Depot.
While some municipalities already prohibit outdoor fires
“If outdoor fireplaces continue to proliferate in urban areas, the authorities will have to look into it. Let’s not forget that the first victims of smoke are the most vulnerable people, such as asthmatics”, reminds Dr. Louis Drouin.