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Home and Work Fireplace Safety Tips
Most homes look and feel cozier when they have a fireplace,
especially a workable one that the owners use on occasion. But
even an attractive fixture of this type can be dangerous if it
is not managed correctly or safely. If you have recently
purchased a home that has a fireplace, find and read maintenance
guidelines to make sure your fireplace continues to be a source
of pleasure rather than pain.
When taking possession of your home, ask the previous owner
about the condition of the fireplace. Find out whether it was
used, and if so, how often. Inquire as to whether there were
problems with the fireplace, and if the chimney ever needed or
received any type of repairs. It also would be a good idea to
ask if there had been any problems with a fire starting from the
fireplace or if carbon monoxide levels were checked. Once you
have this information, you will have a better idea of what needs
to be done.
Get the chimney inspected. Even if the past owners confirmed
that the fireplace was in good working order, an annual checkup
is advisable to make sure the flue remains operational, and that
creosote has not built up to dangerous levels. Besides, small
animals like birds, squirrels, and bats can build nests in the
chimney at any time, and severe weather can take an unexpected
toll, so a yearly inspection is a good idea.
Learn how to start, maintain, and put out fireplace flames.
Keep the necessary materials on hand, like kindling wood and a
lighter. Do not burn just any kind of
materials in the
fireplace, as some, like aerosol containers, may explode while
others may release toxic substances.
Keep the right equipment on hand. You will want to put up a
screen to keep sparks from darting onto the floor or nearby
furniture. A poker will let you stir the embers to check for
embers. You will need a shovel and a small dustpan to remove
ashes, as well as a bin for firewood. Don't forget to keep a
fire extinguisher on hand, and know how to use it. Teach family
members what to do in case the flame should get out of control.
Install a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector in the
room to pick up early levels of problem fumes or smoke. Without
the necessary items, you could run the risk of letting a fire
spread into the room.
Never leave a fireplace flame unattended. Someone should stay
in the room or be in and out frequently to monitor its burning.
Otherwise, if a problem occurs, it could spread quickly without
adequate supervision. Make sure the fire has burned out before
leaving the house or going to bed. Don't close the flue until
the fire is completely out, or the house could fill with smoke
or carbon monoxide.
A fire in your hearth is a beautiful sight, but it is important
to learn how to tend it properly. Get the necessary guidelines
and equipment before burning logs in your home fireplace.
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For more information on fireplace safety tips, Visit The Fireplace Directory
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