As pollution from wood-burning stoves hits the headlines, rural insurance experts at NFU Mutual share ways to make your stove safer. 

Local Authorities have recently been instructed to issue on-the-spot fines for those breaking air pollution laws in force in many UK towns and cities.

In rural Britain and in some houses in urban areas, a stove is the primary means of heating the home.

It can be an economical means of heating, and with rocketing fuel prices in recent years, many have turned to their stove as an alternative to central heating.

Andrew Chalk, rural insurance specialist at NFU Mutual, said:

“If your stove is not properly maintained or used, you could be risking your health and your safety. Dangerous fumes may escape from your stove or chimney and fire could engulf your home.

“Additionally, more polluting stoves will generally be less efficient, costing you more money in the long run as well as presenting a greater risk to your health and your property."

NFU Mutual have advised to only burn seasoned wood with a moisture content of 20% or below, or use lower-polluting wood pellets, looking for the Ready To Burn logo on any purchases.