PEOPLE are being urged to consider their vulnerable neighbours before lighting barbecues, bonfires and open fires.

Brighton and Hove City Council said open fires and fire pits can be a “nuisance to others and could impact on people’s health.”

The council warned that the extra smoke generated by wood burners, log fires and bonfires may be making things worse for people who already have health problems.

Coronavirus affects the respiratory system, and smoke from an open fire can make symptoms worse for those battling the virus.

The announcement comes as lockdown restrictions relax to allow people to meet again in yards and gardens – with some choosing to using open fires to keep warm on chilly days.

A spokesman for Brighton and Hove City Council said: “With summer almost upon us, many of us will want to invite friends and family into our gardens and break out the barbecue.

“Having more time in our gardens and outdoor spaces, we may also want to light a bonfire to dispose of things like garden waste.

“Please show consideration to your neighbours and not create excess smoke and odour. It’s also much better to compost garden waste or take it to one of our recycling centres.

“When finished with your fire, put it out to avoid smouldering, carbon monoxide and smoke pollution.”

The council is reminding people living in Smoke Control Areas (SCA), introduced as part of the Clean Air Act, that they can only burn approved, smokeless fuels and that it is an offence to not follow this guidance.

Areas of the city covered by an SCA include: Hanover, Bevenden, Lewes Road and city centre areas.

The council is also calling on people not to use elm tree logs for their fires and wood burners to avoid spreading elm disease, which is devastating the city’s historic elm tree collection.