We may live in the Sunshine State, but many homes still have fireplaces. They’re the perfect place to relax and enjoy a good book on a chilly evening. Before you get cozy fireside, make sure your fireplace is safe.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, four out of five fire-related deaths occur in the home. Even scarier- 33% of house fires are caused by fireplaces and chimneys that are not properly cared for. It’s important to make sure your chimney is clear of debris and that your fireplace is properly tended to.
The following fireplace safety tips will keep you and your family safe this winter:
- Keep the chimney clean. With many fires occurring in the chimneys, flues, and fuel burners of homes, keeping a clean chimney is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home. If you neglect the chimney, the burned material will build up and put you and your property at risk. Make sure you get your chimney professionally cleaned or swept regularly.
- Minimize the risk of sparks. Keep all flammable material, such as rugs or curtains, away from your fireplace to reduce the risk of sparks kindling and catching. Another great option is to add a screen to your fireplace that will contain the sparks.
- Invest in a smoke alarm. You can save your home and its residents by having functioning smoke alarms and carbon dioxide detectors. Check these alarms regularly. This is something that our team of professionals can do for you.
- Ventilate your rooms. Many people are not aware that the toxic gases that are in smoke can make you sick. Keeping your rooms aired will allow the fumes to escape before they make you sick.
- Practice safe fireplace behavior. Never leave a fire burning while you are asleep and make sure that it is completely out before leaving your home.
With these fireplace safety tips, you can stay cozy this winter!
Avoid children playing around it. Children, especially toddlers, tend to be mischievous, making them accident prone.