A crackling fire adds a special kind of warmth and glow during the holiday season. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, now is a good time to review some important safety reminders with your family and guests. Doing so will keep your festivities joyful and bright, protecting your home and loved ones throughout the holidays and beyond.
1. Only Burn Seasoned Firewood.
Burning green or unseasoned wood causes excess smoke and increases creosote buildup in your chimney. Burn seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, or birch instead. These burn more efficiently and produce less soot, keeping your fire safer and cleaner.
2. Hang Your Stockings With Care.
Seasonal decorations will enhance the look of your fireplace, but place them at least three feet away to keep your home and family safe.
3. Don’t Burn Your Wrapping Paper.
As tempting as it may be to toss crumpled wrapping paper into your fireplace, save it for the trash or recycle bin. Gift wrap and other ink-colored paper can release toxic gasses when burned. The paper also burns so quickly that it can enter your chimney and ignite creosote deposits in the flue, causing a fire.
4. Never Leave a Fire Unattended.
The holidays can be a busy (and exhausting) time of year. Don’t leave your home or go to bed until the fire is completely extinguished. Use a fireplace poker to spread out the embers and let them cool.
5. Avoid Overloading Your Fireplace.
Remind well-meaning guests not to overload your fireplace. A large, roaring fire might seem like a good idea, but it can create excess heat, causing increased creosote production and cracks in your masonry. Stick with a small, manageable fire instead.
6. Use Caution When Disposing of Ashes.
Did you know that ashes can retain heat for hours, even days after a fire is extinguished? Always dispose of them in a metal container with a secure lid. Keep the container outdoors and away from your home or any combustible materials.
7. Install and Maintain Safety Devices.
Ensure your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order. Test them regularly, replacing batteries as needed.
Keep a fire extinguisher in your home and ensure everyone who lives with you knows how to use it.
If you don’t already have one, install a fireplace safety screen to stop sparks from flying into your home and prevent pets and small children from getting too close.
Stay Warm and Safe This Holiday Season.
Follow these fireplace safety tips to ensure a warm, memorable, and safe holiday season. And if you haven’t had a chimney cleaning and inspection this year, be sure to contact our CSIA-certified chimney professionals to schedule an appointment. An annual cleaning and inspection is the best way to ensure your chimney works safely and efficiently.
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