There's nothing cozier than a warm, bright fire on a crisp autumn night.
Unfortunately, every year at least 12,000 people are killed in residential
fires in the United Sates, according to statistics from the National
Fire Protection Association. Some of those fires are caused by fireplaces
and woodburning stoves. Understanding and practicing the following
safety tips will help keep those hearth fires glowing in a safe, controlled
manner.
Placing a shield around the fireplace is the easiest way to prevent sparks
catching fire. Glass grates that entirely enclose the fireplace are the
most effective. Wire mesh grates aren't as impenetrable but are still
effective against most of the sparks. The fireplace should draw properly
so smoke is not blown back into the living area.
In case ash, sparks or smoke do fly out, make sure the area around the
fireplace isn't carpeted. A non-combustible hearth, such as brick or
linoleum, is the best floor covering next to the fireplace.
Cleaning the fireplace regularly can also guard against fires. Ash or
creosote buildup in the flue can catch fire if the buildup has accumulated
over a period of time and the fire temperature is hot. Creosote can be
eliminated by maintaining a big, hot fire instead of small, smoky or
wet fires that lead to creosote build up. Hire a chimney sweep or clean
the chimney flue and damps once a year with a big brush.
The type of wood selected depends upon the type of fire desired. Most
people with fireplaces long for nice, bright flames, since they are choosing
a fireplace for aesthetic reasons, instead of for heat. Cottonwood, maple
or elm are best for aesthetic fires. Harder, heavier woods such as oak
and ash are best for heat fires.
Another area of concern with fire safety awareness is the management
of woodburning stoves or heaters. Many fires from stoves are started
when the residents are away or have gone to sleep. To guard against this,
adjust the air intake vents before going to bed or leaving the house.
Woodburning stoves should never be left alone unless the heater can be
prepared for an amount of unsupervised time.
As with fireplaces, woodburning heaters and stove pipes should be regularly
checked to guard against soot and creosote buildup. Slow-burning fires
are more likely to create these deposits. Turn off the heater to clean
and take the opportunity to make sure that there are no other problems
developing.
Take time to check your furnace or woodburning stove before the cold
weather arrives. If you are not able to do this yourself, professional
chimney cleaners can be hired to do this job
