You can help to ensure that you enjoy years of warmth and comfort from your gas or wood-burning fireplace by performing regular maintenance and safety practices. Before lighting your fireplace, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Have your chimney inspected annually and professionally cleaned as needed.
- Install a guard on top of your chimney to prevent animals or debris from getting in and blocking it.
- Keep the area around the fireplace clear of any flammable objects and use a fireplace grate or screen.
- Keep children and pets away from the fireplace and never leave unattended.
- Never use gasoline or any liquid accelerant to help start your fire.
- Install both a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke alarm in your home. Check the batteries regularly.
- Have a fire extinguisher readily available.
- Make sure the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
