Living room fireplace.
SA/Flickr
A warm fireplace might add to the perfect holiday scene, but it can be dangerous too.
Wood burned in an indoor fireplace contains tiny particles that can float through the air and damage your breathing. Pima County Environmental Quality Manager Natalie Shepp explained how harmful substances can contribute to health issues.
“When that particulate matter is breathed in, it can get deep inside the lungs. So not only could it impact lung function but it could also impact cardiac function because it could wind up getting into the bloodstream," she said.
Shepp recommended celebrating an open fire in a backyard firepit, where air circulates freely. The Environmental Protection Agency provides more tips about fireplace safety on its website.
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