Fireplace Safety is important

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

As cold temperatures get settled in for a long winter’s nap, many of us start to settle in by our fireplace. Many people use their fireplaces frequently in the winter months and something about a fireplace can make a home feel so cozy. However, it is important to understand how to keep your home safe while using your fireplace.

DOUBLE CHECK SAFETY DEVICES

If you are planning to use your fireplace this winter, be sure to test your smoke alarms beforehand. If you don’t remember the last time you replaced the batteries, you should do so now. You should be confident that all of your alarms, including a carbon monoxide alarm, are working properly. You should also have a small fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies.

INSTALL SAFETY SCREENS

If you have young children, or you have young children visiting this holiday season, it is important to have a safety screen installed on your fireplace. Fire screens will keep little hands from reaching into the fire or getting too close to the actual fire itself. The materials surrounding your fireplace, such as glass or metal, can also get extremely hot and will stay hot for hours after the fire is out. Safety screens will also prevent embers from popping out of the fire and into a room, which is especially good if you might leave the room unattended.

KEEP AREA CLEAR

If you have a fireplace, you should make sure that the area surrounding your fireplace is cleared out. Many people are guilty of putting gifts around the fireplace to serve as a decoration. Other people often put their Christmas tree right next to their fireplace. You should never put a single thing in close proximity to your fireplace while it’s functioning. You should keep all things, from books, to decorations, to curtains, a safe distance away from your fireplace. Many common household items are flammable and the temperature of the fire itself could cause them to react.

Be safe this winter and if needed SERVPRO is one call away.