Fireplaces are beautiful and comforting, but they can also pose as a real safety concern if the proper precautions aren’t taken. There are a few tips you should know in order to make the most out of your fireplace, without risking your and your family’s safety.
Clean Your Fireplace and Chimney
We all have heard of chimney sweeps, but most of us have never thought twice about cleaning the inside of our fireplaces. This is very important, because buildup of ashes from previous fires can create too much smoke. The inside of your chimney has creosote, which is a highly flammable substance that builds up as a result of burning wood. If you haven’t ever had your chimney cleaned, it would be best to get on that right away. Normally, people have their chimneys cleaned before the beginning of the season when they use it the most.
Clear Flammable Objects
Having decorations on and around your fireplace can really transform a room. However, it is best to not have any flammable objects too close to the fire. If you have these objects around your fireplace and you’re not looking to get rid of them, try placing them in a different spot when using your fireplace.
Never Leave Your Fireplace Unattended
This tip is extremely important because a lot can happen when we aren’t looking. If you have to leave your house or plan on going to bed, make sure your fireplace is completely out before doing so. If you have to go to the other room, always take your small children with you to avoid any accidents. If you have children, teach them that the fireplace is something not to play with, even when it’s not on.
Extra Safety Measures
Put all fireplace tools and accessories away from a child’s reach, and the same goes for any lighters and matches. You can install safety screens to minimize the chances of small children or pets getting burned. If installing a safety screen isn’t an option, they have foldable safety screens that work just as well. Lastly, keep a fire extinguisher at the house in case of any accidents, and always make sure your smoke detectors are working.
By taking some extra precautions, fireplaces can pose no threat to your family and be a nice addition to any room.
