PGAQ #81 by Vic Steblin, Jan 29, 2009

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

Some wood-burners claim that natural gas or electricity prices are too high, forcing them to heat their houses with wood. I believe that argument is wrong. In my observation and opinion, the average wood-burner is well-off. They actually have a house with the freedom by law to burn wood.

The equipment and collecting time needed to burn wood costs more than natural gas or electricity. The long term health cost to family and neighbours should end the illusion that wood heat is cheap.

Every wood burner that I know is reasonably well off. They have a truck and can afford to fill it with fuel to get wood. They have decent saws, splitters, storage sheds and fine stoves. They have time, lots of it, to spend on this hobby.

The homes of some wood burners are so hot that they must go outside to cool off. Some take off their shirts and are still sweating.

In my opinion wood burning is an unnecessary hobby, and an expensive one. Many people burn wood because of tradition and a basic lack of respect for health.

Smoking cigarettes may be addictive, but burning wood is mostly attitude. Wood burners should quit voluntarily. Spend your time on worthwhile hobbies and respect those who need clean air to enjoy life.