As you are prepping your family to use your new stove and purchasing fuel for the winter, keep in mind that some people are sensitive to wood burning smoke, wood dust, molds that can occur on wood when stored outdoors and the bees that hibernate on the chopped wood.
If you have sensitivities in your family, here are ways to reduce the reactions:
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Store the wood if possible in a shed or covered area to prevent mold from growing in bark.
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Place the wood directly into the fire instead of stacking it near stove/fireplace.
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When building a fire, have the sensitive stay out of the room. If the one starting the fire has the allergies, consider a paper mask while building it.
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Make sure there is appropriate draft throughout the life of the fire to reduce the smoke inhaled.
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Hard woods smoke the least and will create the least reaction.
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For wood dust allergies, reaction can vary depending on wood species. Avoid cedar as it is one of the biggest offenders.
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If you have skin sensitivity to wood, wear long sleeve and gloves when carrying it in.
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Reconsider burning regularly if you have an asthmatic in the family.
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Bees will hibernate on chopped wood. Look at each piece and brush them off (they will be sleepy and lazy) before bringing the wood in house.
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