Wood Burning Fireplace Safety Tips for the Holidays

While there is never a good time for a house fire, the holidays seem like the worst time. You have plans for get-togethers. You have the house beautifully decorated. You have all those wrapped presents under the Christmas tree. You are prepared for a magical time - not a house fire.

Protect your home and your loved ones during this festive season with these tips for using your wood burning fireplace or wood stove.

• Clean your chimney. Be sure your chimney is inspected and clean. Smoke can cause creosote buildup, which can ignite easily. This is a messy and sometimes dangerous job so hire a certified professional
• Clear the area. Keep flammable things like curtains, furniture, and decorations away from the fireplace. Wrapping paper piled near a wood or gas heater can quickly become a fire hazard.
• Choose the right wood. Only burn dry, well-seasoned hardwood to minimize creosote buildup and smoke; avoid green or treated wood.
• Open the damper. Always open the damper fully before lighting your fire. You don't want to reach inside your chimney after someone lights the fire. That's a recipe for a smokey holiday and possibly worse.
• Install a spark arrestor chimney cap. A chimney cap with a spark arrestor helps prevent sparks from escaping and igniting whatever is close by.
• Use a fireplace screen. A fireplace screen helps catch embers and keep sparks from flying into your room. This could save your tree, your presents, and your carpet from an ugly demise.
• Test smoke alarms. Make sure to install smoke detectors near your fireplace and check that they work.
• Stay with your fire. Do not leave a fire burning in the fireplace without supervision. Be sure that supervisor is an adult.

Burning wood in your fireplace or fireplace insert adds a cozy element to the holidays. Imagine you and your family unwrapping your gifts beside its warmth and glow. By following the above safety tips, you can be sure that your holiday season is truly a happy one.

Still looking for the perfect wood burning fireplace for your home? Call our certified hearth professional at 888-418-0005 or email info@woodstovepro.com.