Fireplace Safety
With cooler weather (in most parts of the country), it's time to start thinking about your fireplaces. These
Fireplace Safety Tips are also available in our download
folder for you to print and distribute to members of your condo association.
- Slightly open a window near the fireplace. As a fire burns, it needs air. If the fireplace is not given a free flow of air, your house will smell of smoke.
- When using the fireplace, maintain a moderate but bright and actively flaming fire. Hot air rises, cold air falls. If the fire is not hot enough, the cold air outside can push the smoke down.
- Make sure your damper is completely open. Water damage or soot buildup might prevent your damper from opening all the way.
- Have your chimney cleaned. The accumulation of soot seriously affects the way your chimney performs. A 1/2" buildup restricts the air flow by 17% for a typical masonry fireplace. Also, if your damper does not fully open, it may be time to have it cleaned.
- Do not use green or wet firewood. If your wood is not dry and well seasoned it makes more smoke than heat. Consider ordering next year's wood in Spring, to give it time to dry out. (Also, never burn a discarded Christmas tree in the fireplace. It can be a fire hazard.)
- Use a safety screen or glass door for protection from embers.
- Do not leave a fire or smoldering embers unattended.
- Do not close your damper until you are sure the fire is out.
- Do not burn wrapping paper, plastics, or use charcoal. These items may give off carbon monoxide or toxic chemicals in the smoke.
- Be careful in handling partially burned wood. The wood may still be smoldering and cause a serious burn.
- Keep a fire extinguisher on hand.
- Never overload your fireplace. A fire that's too large can damage your chimney.
- Do not use gasoline, lighter fluid, or other fuel to light a fire because the vapors might explode.
- Make sure you have nothing flammable too close to the fireplace. Don't keep newspapers and other items that might catch fire near the fireplace.
