5 Fireplace Safety Tip For Homeowners to Follow

Fireplaces can contribute warmth and charm to your home. However, a fireplace can become a safety hazard if not maintained or used properly. To avoid house fires, burns, and other fire-related damage, review these safety suggestions and make good fire safety a habit in your home.

Keep your fireplace clean

The area near the fireplace and hearth should be kept clear; never place debris, decorations, or any flammable material in this space. It is also important to check the ventilation window to make sure it is not blocked by debris or covered in soot, as this can prevent it from functioning properly.

Child-proof the fireplace and hearth

Children should not be near a lit fire without the supervision of a responsible adult. Consider blocking the fireplace with a hearth gate or other safety barriers, and keep any fireplace tools away from the reach of children. Only adults should light the fire.

Have your chimney inspected annually

An unclean chimney could potentially cause a house fire. Smoke from low-burning fires or damp wood can leave behind creosote on your chimney walls. Over time this can build-up and cause its own fire. This is why homeowners should have their chimneys annually inspected and cleaned by a certified chimney inspector. The homeowner should also remove any branches hanging above the chimney, flues, and vents.

Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Homes should have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor. Homeowners should check their devices regularly to insure that they are functioning correctly. Exposure to carbon monoxide can be highly dangerous. Exposure to carbon monoxide, a clear, odorless gas, can lead to difficulties in the blood’s transport of oxygen, which is vital to the body. The best way to avoid exposure to the poisonous gas is by installing detectors and making sure the batteries are replaced at least once a year.

Learn how to properly light and put out a fire

Begin by opening the flue. Lay several pieces of crumpled paper in the middle of the fireplace. Next, lean pieces of kindling over the crumpled paper, forming a teepee. After the teepee is in place, light the paper on fire. Leave the fireplace door open slightly to allow the air to circulate. You can add larger pieces of dry wood to the fire once the kindling starts to burn. Take care that you don’t smother the fire, however. The fire should generate less smoke once the dry wood begins to burn. Be sure to never leave your fire burning overnight. Always make sure that the fire is completely out and the flue closed before going to bed or leaving the area unattended.

Scott Clawson is the Director of Marketing for Craft Stove and fireplace Center. Since 1979, Craft Stove and Fireplace Center has served the Georgia region with the finest fireplace and stove services and equipment. They specialize in providing quality home heating and cooking products via their fireplaces and stoves. Whether building a home, upgrading an existing stove, or retrofitting your heating system, Craft Stove and Fireplace Center can assist you with ideas and suggestions for Atlanta Fireplace and Atlanta Woodstove products that coordinate well in antique, modern, or contemporary settings. For more information, visit Craft Stove and Fireplace Center online at: www.CraftStoveandFireplace.com

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