PGAQ #51 by Vic Steblin, Nov 25, 2008

2570 Laurier Crescent, Prince George, BC, 250-564-1123

I have noticed that many smokers and wood burners are quite defiant. Humans react negatively to criticism and do not appreciate being told what to do. Defiant reactions may also be a cover for guilty feelings.

During the late 70’s there was a blood donor clinic in the old civic auditorium. After testing for blood type, we waited in chairs for the next available nurse. I recall that the fellow next to me started smoking. In those days there were few objections or rules about smoking in public places. I recall asking him to blow the smoke the other way and he retorted with “What’s your problem?” I left and told the attendant it was because of the smoke.

When I recently visited an older wood burner who responded to one of my letters I noticed the same defiant attitude. It could be that certain smokers and wood burners will even react by creating more smoke to purposely annoy others. This backlash is a real concern and our city must enforce its anti-smoke bylaw with gradually increasing consequences. Better yet, ban all wood burning in city limits.

There will be extreme supporters of wood burning and these few will consider any ban a great threat to their tradition and rights. They will obviously downplay the side effects of smoke and be quick to point out the pollution of mills and transportation. Wood burners must have reasonable facts and clear evidence for a change in attitude.