Fireplace Safety

What better way to spend cooler evenings than in front of the fireplace. There is something magical and relaxing in watching the flames while warming your tootsies before the fire.

If your home already has a fireplace, a yearly inspection will keep you safe. Before hauling in the logs or turning on the gas, check for cracks in the flue liner, the bricks and the mortar. If you used your fireplace last year, there could be a build-up of creosote that needs to be cleaned out.

Fire safety rules dictate you NEVER start a fire with flammable liquid. There should also be smoke detectors nearby and a fire extinguisher. It's a good idea to install an animal guard on top of the chimney. Squirrels and birds can build a nest which would stop proper air flow. And speaking of air flow, many of today's homes are air tight with caulking and weather stripping. That's good for conserving energy, but a fireplace needs air circulation. An outside air vent will solve this problem. Or, you could just open a window slightly.

Fireplace screens can be decorative as well as useful. Choose one that is large enough to prevent any stray sparks from entering the room. A 'roaring' fire might sound good, but it's not a good idea. A fire that is too large can actually start a fire in the chimney. If you are using artificial logs, only burn one at a time, as they produce a higher temperature fire.

When it's time to empty the ashes, make sure they have thoroughly cooled. And place them in a metal container with a lid. Never leave a fireplace unattended. Before retiring for the evening, be sure the fire is completely out. With proper maintenance and a little extra care, your fireplace will keep you warm and cozy for a long time.

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