There's nothing that warms you up more on a cold day than starting a roaring fire in the hearth. At Dean & Draper, we want to make sure you enjoy your fireplace safely. Scary but true, 36% of house fires are caused by home heating fires according to the US Fire Administration.
To stay warm, toasty, and safe here are some tips:
Wood Burning Fireplaces
Have the chimney cleaned and inspected annually to ensure there isn't buildup of creosote that could cause a fire. Often birds and other critters will also make a home in an unused chimney - your professional can evict them. Ask them to check for cracks in the chimney that could cause issues, too.
Use a metal mesh screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks.
Keep any combustible materials at least 3 feet away from the fireplace.
Never use liquid accelerators such as gasoline or kerosene to start a fire.
Burn only seasoned hardwood. Soft, moist wood produces more smoke and creosote.
Never burn trash or wrapping paper in a fireplace.
Keep matches away from children.
Never leave a fire unattended.
Let coals cool before removing them.
Make sure smoke detectors are installed and working in the house.
Gas Logs
So much easier and cleaner than wood logs, today’s gas logs look like the real wood and produce about the same amount of heat. Before you get too complacent, check out what the Chimney Safety Institute of America has to say about taking care of your chimney.
“Yellow flame, often referred to as "vented" gas logs generate soot and carbon which is deposited in the chimney. These deposits require chimney cleaning just like a real wood fireplace does. - See more at: http://www.csia.org/homeowner-resources/Gas_Logs.aspx#sthash.BlkWNX61.dpuf.
A roaring fire in the fireplace can be relaxing and magical on a cold day. To keep your home fires burning, follow our tips and think safety always.
Dean & Draper is a Trusted Choice insurance agency representing over 200 insurance companies. For over 30 years we have offered a trusted freedom of choice to our clients.
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