The holiday season is here. Friends and family gather to share in special traditions and create memories that you can cherish throughout the year. Not to mention, relaxing in front of a crackling fire. Unfortunately, this scene can turn ugly in a hurry if you don’t exercise safe practices when you have a fire burning. There are several things you should do if you have a fireplace, especially if you’ll have children around during the holiday season.
Fireplace Safety
The number one thing you should do to make sure your holidays don’t get ruined by a fireplace disaster? Have your chimney and fireplace inspected and cleaned, well before the holiday season hits. When you’re looking for a chimney sweep service, it is important to hire someone who is Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified. This ensures that your chimney inspection is held to the highest standard of quality in the industry. All the lead technicians at Owen’s Chimney Systems are CSIA certified and participate in mandatory industry training. In doing this, making sure they stay ahead of all the latest technical advances in the industry. They’ll make sure you go into the holidays knowing that your chimney is clean, obstruction free, and in great working condition.
It’s also important to know how to start your fire safely. According to the Hearth, Patio, and Barbeque Association website, a perfect fire starts with seasoned firewood. If the wood isn’t dry enough, you will have a smoky fire. Crumple paper and stick it on the grate or cover the paper with kindling or a fire starter. Make sure the fireplace damper is fully open. Afterwards, light the paper. When the initial fire is burning brightly, add the seasoned wood and shut your fire screen. This way you’ll have a safe, warm fire to brighten your holiday gatherings.
Another way to make sure that your fire stays safe? Make sure there is nothing flammable near the fireplace. This includes furniture, curtains, books, and toys. Consequently, any of these can easily catch fire and put your home and loved ones in danger.
Also, as stated on the healthychildren.org website, make sure that you never leave your fire unattended. Be sure that the fire is out before you leave the house or go to bed. Also, never leave small children alone in the room with a fire burning. Another way to make sure that your children don’t get burned is by installing a safety screen in front of your fireplace.
Importance of Smoke Detectors
One thing that often gets overlooked is making sure that you have enough smoke detectors, and that they all have batteries that are charged. According to the U.S. Fire Administration website, you should have a smoke detector installed in every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on each floor of the house. This includes the basement, as well. Check your smoke detector batteries once a month, and change the batteries at least twice a year.
Call Owen’s Chimney Service
If you have questions or concerns on holiday fireplace safety, call Owen’s Chimney Service. Their qualified professionals have the answers to help make your Christmas season safe and worry-free! A holiday that will give you happy memories that will last forever.