With the approach of winter weather, in many homes it’s an appropriate time to review fireplace safety measures. A crackling fire adds indoor charm to a home when it’s wintry and cold outside.
Nevertheless, on the National Fire Protection Association’s top-ten list of home fire dangers, fireplaces rank at number 7. A fireplace requires careful attention to minimize potential hazards. Here are some fireplace safety tips to keep in mind:
- Have both the fireplace and the chimney structure examined annually by a qualified inspector.
- Before the first fire of the season, look up the chimney. If anything is obstructing chimney airflow — bird’s nests, overhanging tree limbs, etc. — have these removed before using the fireplace.
- Clean the fireplace. Sweep out any dust, ashes left over from past fires, or other debris out of the fireplace and discard.
- Test the chimney damper to ensure that the mechanism operates smoothly and that the damper opens and closes fully.
- Firewood should be dry, seasoned hardwood logs of hickory, oak, beech, maple, ash, or birch. As a safe alternative, manufactured logs made specifically for fireplaces are also available.
- Don’t burn green wood of any type. It produces excess smoke and creosote which can accumulate and present a fire hazard.
- A fireplace is not an incinerator. Don’t burn cardboard, newspapers, foam containers, fabrics, etc. Some materials may burn explosively, extending flames outside the fireplace.
- Stack firewood near the back of the fireplace to prevent embers or sparks from potentially falling out of the fire and onto carpeting or wood flooring.
- While the fire is burning, a fireplace screen in front of the fire is helpful in stopping airborne sparks.
- A carbon monoxide detector should be placed in the room at least 5 feet and as much as 20 feet from the fireplace.
- Don’t leave the fire unattended and go to bed or leave the house.
- Never leave children alone with the fireplace. To take fireplace safety seriously, an adult should be present at all times.
For more suggestions about fireplace safety in your home this winter, talk to the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services.
