Fireplace Safety Tips for the Upcoming Winter Season

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

It’s almost that time of the year when it’s time to drink a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace cuddled up in blankets, but fireplaces can be potentially very dangerous for you and your home. Following the tips below will help prevent any fire damage to your home.

Fireplace safety tips
• Before winter, get your chimney cleaned really well before use.
• Inspect your chimney cap regularly for damages and replace and fix anything that might be damaged.
• Keep flammable objects, such as newspapers, books, and furniture, at least two feet away from the fireplace.
• Make sure there is a fire extinguisher in your house and make sure its easily able to access.
• Have a metal screen or glass doors installed to prevent embers and ashes from shooting out of the fireplace.
• Supervise children whenever the fireplace is being used. Remind them to stay away from the fire. Keep pets at a safe distance from the fire, as well.
• Always supervise the fire and never leave it burning when you go to sleep or if you are leaving your home.
• Install and maintain smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms.
When starting the fireplace:
• Remove the ashes from the previous fire but let them cool for several hours before disposing of them.
• Place crumpled paper on the grate and cover it with kindling or another Firestarter. Do not use flammable liquids to start a fireplace. Add the firewood once the kindling is burning brightly. Then, close the fire screen.
• Don’t overload the fireplace.
• Never burn plastic, garbage or other toxic materials.

Call SERVPRO today at (662)-287-7881 with any questions you may have about our fire restoration services! We are always here to help!