Do You Know Fireplace Safety?

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

Fireplace Safety Tips

Brrr...it is cold outside! A warm cozy fire can be wonderful in the winter but it can easily turn into severe fire damage in your Charlotte, NC, home. 

SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg county wants you to be both cozy and safe!  We have some tips to share to keep you that way!

Get your fireplace cleaned and inspected yearly. 

• Over time, a sticky flammable substance released by wood-burning called creosote can build up in the chimney.
• If a chimney isn't cleaned creosote can build up and the chimney can catch on fire.
• Chimney fires are both dangerous to the inhabitants and to the chimney.
• Leaves and animal nests can also build up in chimneys during the off-season.
• A level one inspection will ensure a sturdy chimney and necessary cleaning for both gas and wood-burning chimneys.

Only burn dry, seasoned wood

• For the best fire, your wood should contain about 20% water.
• Fresh-cut wood can contain up to 45% making it hard to catch fire, produces more smoke and creosote builds up faster.
• Properly seasoned firewood is cut and dried for six months to one year. It should have dark edges and visible cracks and be lightweight.
• Putting other materials like paper, cardboard or foam can cause extreme flames and toxic smoke posing a danger to people nearby. 

Check the damper

• A damper is a plate or valve that controls the airflow in your chimney. This is what keeps wind and rain out when the fireplace isn't in use.
• Before starting a fire be sure to open the damper all the way to allow the fire to start and allow smoke to flow upwards.
• After the fire is strong the damper can be closed partially to keep heat in while letting smoke out. 

Install carbon monoxide detectors

• Carbon monoxide is produced from burning wood and if this builds up indoors it can cause serious problems.
• Be sure to install a detector near the fireplace and in bedrooms to protect from carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Be sure to follow all of these steps to enjoy relaxing by the fire safely. For more information on fire safety, the National Fire Protection Association is a good resource.

To see more fireplace safety tips in action check out this video.

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