Effects on neighbours
Bonfires can be very irritating to neighbours. The smoke, smuts and smells are the subjects of many complaints to local councils. Smoke prevents your neighbours enjoying their gardens, opening windows or hanging out washing. It also reduces visibility in the neighbourhood and on roads.
Air pollution and health effects
Bonfires cause air pollution. Burning garden waste produces smoke, especially if it is damp and smouldering. This will contain pollutants, such as carbon monoxide, dioxins and particles. Burning plastic, rubber or painted materials not only create an unpleasant smell, but also produce poisonous compounds. Your bonfire will also add to the general background level of air pollution. Air pollution in the UK often reaches unhealthy levels - do you really want to make it worse? Weather conditions affect air quality. If the air is still, particularly in the late afternoon or evening, smoke will linger and pollution will be worse.
These can all have damaging health effects. Acute health problems may be caused for asthmatics, bronchitis sufferers, people with heart conditions and children.
Safety
Remember, bonfires can also be dangerous. Fire can spread to fences or buildings, and scorch trees and plants. Exploding bottles and cans are a hazard when rubbish is burned.
