Fireplace Safety Tips and How to Avoid Hazards
12/5/2019 (Permalink)
Fireplace Safety Tips and How to Avoid Hazards
Now that the weather is getting colder and Christmas is almost upon us, you are probably thinking of using your fireplace again. Not only does it add ambiance to the room, but it helps keep the heating bills down. Before you light it up (or even if you already have), here are some tips that will help keep you and your family safe.
Use Dry Cured Wood
Make sure your wood is split and has been cured for at least 12 months. It is okay to cover the top of the wood pile, but make sure the sides are left open to help dry the wood. Green wood causes smoke which will cause soot in the chimney
Don’t Burn Anything but Firewood
If you are tempted to burn old lumber, crates, plastic or paper that has been lying around. Don’t! Items that are not meant to be burned contain chemicals that are released when exposed to heat. Stick with your firewood. Fire starter logs are okay if you use only one.
Make Sure the Damper is Open
This sounds like a no brainer, but after not using the fireplace for a while, people sometimes forget to open the damper or the flue. If the damper helps pull the smoke up the chimney, otherwise it will get very smoky inside. You can use a flashlight to check if the damper is open.
Clear the Area Around the Fireplace
Make sure there is nothing flammable near the fireplace. Furniture, dog beds, drapes, newspapers etc. can catch on fire. These items are potentially flammable and if a piece of wood pops and throws a spark, they could catch on fire.
Here are some other tips that will help you have a safer fireplace:
- Clean ashes from previous fires
- Have the chimney checked once a year by a professional
- Install a chimney cap
- If you have a gas fireplace, make sure the switch is child proof
- Use a safety screen
- Keep fireplace tools out of reach of children
- Install a carbon monoxide detector
- Keep a fire extinguisher on hand
- If you have bifold glass doors make sure they are open when the fire is burning
Keep these tips in mind to have a safe and enjoyable winter season with your fireplace.