Fireplace Safety

It's Good to Be Hearth-Smart

Ahh, it feels nice to snuggle up by the fireplace with a warm blanket and a good book. What doesn't feel good is when the warm glow turns into an out-of-control inferno, followed by a frantic call to 911. To make sure flickering flames stay where they belong, here are a few fireplace safety tips to keep in mind.

Before Starting Your Fire Use a set of fireplace tools to clean out ashes from previous fires. Clear debris, decorations and flammable materials from the area around the hearth. Have fireplace tools nearby to tend the fire. During the Fire Use a fireplace grate to maintain adequate air flow. Leave glass doors open during a fire. Use seasoned hardwood. Don't restrict air supply to your fireplace.

After the Fire

Make sure the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house. Don't close the damper until the embers have completely stopped burning.

Additional Safety Tips

• Install both a smoke and carbon monoxide detector
• Never burn cardboard boxes, trash or debris in your fireplace
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand
• Soak hot ashes in water and put them in a metal container outside your home
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended
• Always close the fire screen when in use
• Hire a chimney specialist to inspect and clean your chimney annually