Fireplace Safety Tips

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is available 24/7 for all of your Fire Damage needs 712-262-4379

Fireplaces might add the ambiance of warmth and tranquility to your home, but that cozy, crackling glow also conceals an ash pan of potential problems. Enjoying a warm, cozy fire requires a clean, safe fireplace. Here are some tips for keeping it that way. 

• Make sure your damper is open before using your fireplace.
• Don't forget to close it when you are done. 
• If your damper is broken you will need to fix or replace it.
• Keep flammable items away from your fireplace. 
• Don't let children or animals play near a fire.
• Use dry cured hardwoods like oak, elm, or maple. Manufactured logs and kindling are also an option.
• Inspect the structure. Do a quick walk around looking for structural integrity both inside and out of the fireplace.
• Check the flue. You should be able to see daylight when you look up.
• Reduce creosote build-up. Creosote is tar-like, flaky stuff that can lead to chimney fires. 
• Invest in glass doors. 
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Make sure your chimney is clean. 
• Keep fireplace tools away from children.
• Clean ashes after every burn. Ashes can stay hot for several days. Always dispose of them in a proper container. 
• Have a smoke and carbon monoxide detector nearby.
• Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Have your chimney inspected each year before you start a fire.

Fireplace safety is key to keeping your home and family safe from fires while enjoying your fireplace. If your home has suffered from fire or soot damage call the professionals at SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes. We off 24/7 Emergency Service.