For complete information, it is important to read the regulation itself. In many BC communities, exposure to wood smoke may be causing substantial illness, according to a 1993 report released by the Provincial Health Officer. The list of illnesses runs from coughing or a runny nose, to asthma, and the aggravation of lung and heart problems.
Smoke causes other problems.
It can blot out the landscape so effectively that road and air travel are dangerously affected, and beautiful views are hidden. The Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks has taken several steps to reduce wood smoke from a variety of sources across the province. If open burning is the sole viable option, the regulation allows it only under strict, safe conditions, which are aimed at keeping smoke to a minimum. The result will be cleaner air, a healthier environment and lower health costs for all of us. This is a general guide to the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation , which is part of the Waste Management Act .