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Get
an annual chimney check. Have chimneys inspected annually,
and cleaned as necessary, by a qualified professional chimney
service technician. This reduces the risk of fires and carbon
monoxide poisonings due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the
chimneys.
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Keep
it clear. Keep tree branches and leaves at least 15 feet
away from the top of the chimney.
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Install
a chimney cap to keep debris and animals out of the chimney.
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Choose
the right fuel. For burning firewood in wood stoves or
fireplaces, choose well seasoned wood that has been split for a
minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and
elevated location. Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood in
your fireplace or wood stove.
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Don't
burn trash. Your fireplace is not an incinerator.
Don't burn packaging, wrappers, and especially anything with plastic
that can produce noxious fumes.
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Build
it right. Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the
fireplace on a supporting grate. To start the fire, use kindling or
a commercial firelighter. Never use flammable liquids.
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Keep
the hearth area clear. Combustible material too close to the
fireplace, or to a wood stove, could easily catch fire. Keep
furniture at least 36” away from the hearth.
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Use
a fireplace screen. Use metal mesh or a screen in front of
the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes
in the carpet or flooring.
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Install
smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Place detectors
throughout the house and check batteries in the spring and fall.
When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time, remember to
check your batteries.
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Never
leave a fire unattended. Before turning in for the evening,
be sure that the fire is fully extinguished. Supervise children and
pets closely around wood stoves and fireplaces.
