Seven Fireplace Safety Tips

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire seems like a great idea, but if not done correctly, they can turn into little chestnut firebombs exploding throughout your home, possibly setting it on fire. So, instead of burning down the only chute Santa knows how to maneuver, ruining the holiday cheer for all, follow these seven fireplace safety tips and keep your home cozy and the fire burning this winter.

Select wood to burn in your fireplace that is completely dry, well-seasoned, and burns hot, so it produces less creosote and carbon monoxide. Other types of wood will release chemicals into your home compromising air quality. To get your fire started, use one fire log at a time, as they burn very hot. Use local firewood to help prevent the spread of tree diseases and insects in your neighborhood. Never burn Christmas trees in a fireplace.

Have your chimney cleaned and inspected at least once a year or after 80 fires. Vacuum out ashes when the fireplace is not in use. Leave about an inch of ash to help start the next fire and insulate the fireplace. You can find creosote cleaners at your local hardware store. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Cracked or discolored masonry in a chimney are signs of a chimney fire. Creosote flakes or ash are strong indicators that your chimney has reached a dangerous point and needs to be cleaned or fixed. Creosote fires can reach up to 2000 degrees – hot enough to melt metal liners.

Dampers prevent warm air from escaping through the chimney. Replace a damper that is poorly sealed. A top-mounted damper that also functions as a rain cap provide a tighter closer than a traditional damper.

Opening the doors will allow heat to get into the room. Keep the screens closed to prevent sparks from jumping out of the fireplace. If you have a factory-built wood fireplace with a fan, you want to keep the doors shut to avoid unnecessary heat loss.

Chimney caps prevent objects, rain, and snow from falling into your chimney and reduces downdrafts. Chimney caps have side vents to allow smoke to escape and a stainless steel cap that won’t rust. Check your chimney cap once a year, ensure that it is securely attached, the mesh is intact, and cut back any nearby tree limbs.

Keep the area around your fireplace clear of anything flammable, like Christmas trees and presents. Install carbon monoxide and smoke detectors near the fireplace and in all bedrooms. Have a fire extinguisher handy and ready for emergencies. Place a fire retardant carpet in front of your fireplace in case sparks do fly out; it won’t melt the floor. Never leave a fire unattended.