As the temperatures start to drop, nothing beats the warmth of a fireplace to make your home feel extra cozy. But with that comfort comes a bit of responsibility. Whether you’ve had your fireplace for years or you’re just starting out this season, taking a few safety steps can make all the difference in keeping your home and family safe from fire hazards.
Fire Prevention Basics
Fireplaces are wonderful additions to any home, but it’s important to stay mindful of the risks. Did you know that the leading cause of home fires is a dirty chimney? The good news is, these fires are usually preventable! By following these simple steps, you can keep things warm and safe:
1. Schedule Regular Inspections and Cleaning
Just like your home’s plumbing or HVAC system, your fireplace needs some TLC, too. Creosote, which builds up inside your chimney over time, is flammable and can lead to chimney fires if not cleaned out. Having your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional once a year is an important task for preventing fires.
2. Install a Fireplace Screen or Glass Doors
A fireplace screen or glass doors act as a barrier between the fire and your living space. These help contain sparks and embers that could otherwise land on carpets, furniture, or nearby flammable objects.
3. Use the Right Fuel
Avoid tossing things like cardboard, paper, or treated wood into your fireplace - they can release toxic fumes and cause more creosote buildup. Stick with seasoned firewood instead, it burns cleaner and helps keep your chimney free of blockages.
4. Keep a Safe Distance
Make sure furniture, curtains, and other household items are at least three feet away from the fireplace. It’s easy to overlook how far heat and sparks can travel, but keeping this buffer zone helps reduce the chances of accidental fires.
5. Never Leave a Fire Unattended
It’s tempting to leave a fire burning while you head to bed or run a quick errand, but it’s a major safety risk. Always extinguish the fire completely before leaving the room, and make sure the embers are cool before disposing of ashes.
Childproofing Your Fireplace
Got little ones at home? It’s no surprise that fireplaces can be super intriguing for curious kids. With a few simple precautions, you can keep them safe and still enjoy the cozy warmth without worry.
1. Set up a Safety Gate
A sturdy, heat-resistant safety gate around the fireplace can prevent children from getting too close. Make sure the gate is tall enough to act as a real barrier and secure it in place to prevent tipping.
2. Keep tools and Accessories Out of Reach
Fireplace tools like pokers and tongs should be stored in a secure place when not in use. These tools can easily tip over or be tempting for children to grab.
3. Use a Hearth Pad
If your fireplace has a raised hearth, consider adding a soft pad to protect against sharp edges. In case of a fall, the padding will help cushion any impact.
4. Keeping the Entire Family Safe
In addition to childproofing, it’s important to keep everyone in the family safe. Make sure your carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have a fire extinguisher readily accessible. Familiarize yourself with how to use it, so you’re prepared in case of an emergency.
When to Call for Professional Help
Even with proper maintenance, sometimes issues arise that need expert attention. If you notice smoke inside your home, poor ventilation, or other signs of creosote buildup, don’t wait - call a professional for an inspection right away. Addressing these problems early on can prevent major safety hazards down the line.
At Supreme Fireplace and Hearth, our team of experts is here to help you maintain a safe and functional fireplace. From routine chimney cleanings to fireplace installation, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re due for a chimney inspection, contact us today!
