In response to “Maine Voices: City officials should address health effects of wood-burning fire pits” (Page A6, Sept. 29): I agree with the column’s author, Jane Sloven.

I burn wood in an efficient and inspected woodstove for heat, and I have the chimney inspected annually. How is it that smoking a cigarette is not allowed in city parks, but if you want to light up an open fire in the backyard, no problem.

Doesn’t matter if it’s a drought and there are hanging branches or if the smoke pours directly into your neighbor’s home. This is a disaster just waiting to happen.

Lorrie Ferrari

Portland