THE DO'S AND DON'TS OF FIREPLACE SAFETY

With winter right around the corner, getting your fireplace ready to tackle the cold temperatures is a project to put at the top of your list. Whether you're experienced at fireplace maintenance or this is your first time using a fireplace, there are important safety issues to consider

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THE DO'S OF USING A FIREPLACE

Before using your fireplace

Before lighting the first fire of the season, have your fireplace cleaned and inspected by a certified chimney sweep. This step should be taken at least once a year to remove any build-up of soot and creosote along the interior lining of the chimney that could cause a fire. Using manufactured logs or seasoned hardwood helps reduce soot and creosote buildup.

Inspect

Do inspect the concrete cap atop your chimney for defects. Even small cracks can funnel water, which will spall bricks and quickly cause structural damage to the entire chimney.

Use hardwoords

If burning wood, use hardwoods; they get hotter and produce less creosote than softwoods.

Safety cap for your chimney

Do consider topping your chimney with a metal safety cap it keeps animals out, and keeps rain off of the damper, which helps protect it from rust.

Think before firing up

Keep the area around the fireplace free from items such as newspapers, magazines, books, furniture or other flammable items. Before lighting a fire, remove any old ashes and open the damper.

You can never be too safe

Install a smoke and a carbon monoxide detector in your home. Replace the batteries periodically.