‘Tis the season for spending time with family and friends, decorated homes, and of course… fires crackling in the fireplace. While a fire in the fireplace can add warmth and ambiance to any holiday gathering, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that come along with it. But by following a few simple safety tips, you can enjoy your fireplace safely this holiday season. 

Here are a few fireplace safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Inspect your fireplace and chimney before lighting a fire. 

Look for cracks or gaps in the mortar between bricks. These need to be repaired before using your fireplace. Also, check the damper (the metal plate that opens and closes the flue) to ensure it’s open before lighting a fire. A closed damper will cause smoke to build up in your home rather than going up the chimney.

2. Only burn wood that is dry. 

Wet wood produces more smoke and creosote (a sticky substance that builds up inside your chimney) than dry wood. And as we all know, too much smoke is not good for you, your family, or your indoor air quality. 

3. Build small fires rather than large ones. 

Large fires produce more smoke and creosote than small fires. Plus, they’re harder to control. Keep your fire at a level you can manage. 

4. Never leave a fire unattended. 

If you must leave the room for any reason, ensure you extinguish the fire first. A small spark can quickly turn into a dangerous blaze if left unchecked. A fire that’s been left unattended is one of the leading causes of house fires during the winter months.

Following these simple safety tips, you can enjoy your fireplace worry-free this holiday season! Inspect your fireplace and chimney before lighting a fire; only burn dry wood, build small fires, and never leave a fire unattended. Taking these precautions allows you to relax and enjoy time spent around the fireplace with family and friends while avoiding any safety hazards.

If you have any questions or want to schedule a fireplace maintenance appointment with an expert, please call us at (419) 678-3821.