Though it has long been practised in the Virgin Islands, backyard burning can cause health problems and damage the environment, Fire and Rescue Services warned this week.
Station Officer Tyronne Caddle said the practice increases the risk of heart disease and can worsen conditions such as asthma and emphysema, according to Government Information Services. It can also create harmful particles that settle on crops and in water.
“We must not only be cautious how we burn, but we must also be mindful of the effect on neighbours and other residents,” Mr. Caddle said.
In the past, he added, backyard burning was used to dispose of household waste, bushes or other material.
“Today however, almost everyone can either throw their trash into the garbage receptacles or transport it to the incinerator,” he said.
If controlled burning must be carried out, the department is asking residents to avoid it during periods of hot, dry weather when fire can spread easily.
Residents should also take other steps, according to GIS: contact the department to say where and when burning will take place; keep a supply of water on hand in case the fire gets out of control; burn one pile at a time; and avoid burning near other homes or residents.