Winter Fire Safety Tips

The Fire Department offers the following tips on safely using fireplaces and wood-burning stoves around the home:

• A stove or fireplace should be properly installed by a qualified professional. Stoves should have adequate clearance from all combustible surfaces, along with adequate floor support and protection.
• Chimneys should be inspected annually.
• Don't use flammable or combustible liquids to start or accelerate a fire.
• Keep a metal or glass screen in front of the fireplace to keep sparks and embers from jumping onto the floor.
• Don't burn charcoal indoors, as it gives off large amounts of carbon monoxide.
• Don't burn large amounts of paper in a fireplace. A roaring fire can ignite creosote in the chimney.
• Don't close the damper if there are hot ashes in the fireplace, as it can reheat the fire and force carbon monoxide into the house.
• Don't place ashes in combustible containers. 
• Be sure your furnace is in good condition, and that its flue is not clogged or loose.
• Test your smoke detectors monthly. If battery-operated, change them annually.
• Plan ahead by having an emergency exit drill in place.