1.Burn dry seasoned
wood, which produces more heat and also prevents soot (creosote) buildup.
Flue vents should be inspected according to manufacturer guidelines,
and cleaned as appropriate by a qualified individual.
2. Keep the area around the heating unit and flue clear.
3. Keep a fire extinguisher in a central location known to all household members.
Be certain that it is in good working order and that everyone knows how to
operate it.
4. Place smoke detectors throughout the house (at least one in the room containing
the wood stove) and test regularly.
5. Children MUST be supervised AT ALL TIMES when using wood stoves.
6. Other household venting appliances (down draft exhaust fans) can diminish
proper venting of your wood stove, causing possible smoke damage. During appliance
installation, test all other appliances (bathroom fans, stovetop venting, HVAC
units, etc.) to ensure that they don’t interfere with proper stove venting.
7. Wood stoves should be safety tested and bear a label from a recognized authority
such as a testing lab (UL) or building code group (NFPA).
8. To start a fire in your wood stove; crumple up paper on the stove floor
and cover with small kindling. Open the draft/damper FULLY and light. Hold
the door slightly ajar for a few minutes and then close tightly. Once the wood
is burning brightly, add additional dry seasoned wood to the fire. Use the
draft control to adjust the burn rate. NEVER light or rekindle a fire with
kerosene, gasoline, or charcoal lighter fluid.
9. When re-fueling, open the door slowly to prevent smoke spillage.
10. Store ashes in a non-combustible metal container with a tightly fitted
lid. Place the closed container on a non-combustible floor, well away from
combustible materials. If ashes are to be buried or otherwise locally dispersed,
store in a sealed container until all cinders have cooled.
