Tips for Fireplace Safety:

  • Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned at least once per year
  • Install bird and animal guards on the chimney
  • Repair cracks in the flue lining, bricks, and mortar
  • Check with your local stove and fireplace accessory store for a chimney fire extinguisher
  • Learn which type of woods and seasoned woods are best to burn
  • Never use building scraps, paneling, plywood, and treated lumber as fuel
  • Keep the damper open while fuel is burning to prevent accumulation of poisonous or explosive gases.
  • Do not use gasoline or other flammable liquids to kindle or rekindle a fire
  • Always use a fireplace screen or glass doors
  • Clean ashes out of the fireplace regularly
  • Remove colored comic sections from newspapers before using in the fireplace. The colored inks contain lead and can produce toxic gases
  • Do not use coal, charcoal or polystyrene packing in a fireplace
  • Do not treat artificial logs the same way you would real wood logs. Use only one at a time
  • Keep children away from the fire. Their clothing can easily catch fire
  • Be sure the fire is completely extinguished before retiring for the evening