Treated wood is not firewood

Both types of treated wood are considered safe when used as intended, but should never be burned. Whether on a bonfire or in your fireplace, burning treated lumber products can release highly toxic chemicals that may make you sick. Wood preservatives such as creosote, pentachlorophenol or chromated copper arsenate (CCA) are pesticide products that help protect wood from insects and other pests but can be hazardous to your health if not handled properly.

Burning treated lumber can release the preservative chemicals into the air, where they can be breathed in. The ash can also contain dangerous concentrations of the same chemicals. If you suspect that you have burned treated wood, dispose of the ashes according to your local waste regulations.

Treated wood is primarily for outdoor use, such as construction lumber, utility poles, marine timbers and pilings, as well as outdoor playgrounds. Pressure-treated wood has had a penetrating chemical preservative applied to it prior to sale, while surface-treated wood has been brushed, sprayed or dipped with a preservative agent.

If you have leftover treated wood from a recent outdoor construction project, dispose of it according to your local waste regulations.

Keep the following tips in mind before building a fire:

For more information about the handling of treated wood visit Health Canada online.