{"id":12848,"date":"2023-05-10T06:48:00","date_gmt":"2023-05-10T12:48:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shieldagency.com\/blog\/?p=12848"},"modified":"2023-05-03T11:02:07","modified_gmt":"2023-05-03T17:02:07","slug":"fireplace-safety-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.shieldagency.com\/blog\/fireplace-safety-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"Fireplace Safety Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Foremost Blog | August 26, 2021 | Fireplace Safety | Home Insurance<\/a> | Start a quote today!<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the weather gets colder and your fireplace becomes more than a decorative focal point, be sure it\u2019s up for the task of keeping your family warm and toasty \u2013 and safe. Our list will help you keep track of proper maintenance and make sure your fireplace is ready for regular use this winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inspect the fireplace and chimney<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Have a professional inspect and clean your fireplace and chimney each year before you begin using it for the season. If you\u2019re using a gas or wood fireplace, open the chimney flue prior to starting the fire to let fresh air feed the flames and allow smoke to exit. Close the flue once the fire is put out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s also important to keep the area surrounding the fireplace free from flammable objects. Be extra cautious of this during the holidays. Keep decorations and stockings a safe distance away from a fire and don\u2019t ever use your fireplace to burn Christmas trees or wrapping paper. Pine boughs and paper burn intensely and can lead to a roof or chimney fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Gas fireplace safety tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Gas fireplaces are exceedingly popular for their efficiency and cleaner burning properties. Enjoy them safely by acknowledging the following safety conditions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Know\u00a0your clearance zone.\u00a0<\/strong>Many gas fireplaces have technology that makes it safe to place electronics and d\u00e9cor near the fireplace or on the mantle. However, certain items should never be placed within your fireplace\u2019s clearance zone. These items include paper items like books, newspapers, and magazines; fabrics, like blankets or drapes; and wood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Proper ventilation is key.<\/strong> Natural gas and carbon monoxide can kill. Make sure your flue and vents are all functioning properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maintain your safety barrier<\/strong>. Whether it\u2019s glass or metal, keep your safety screen in excellent condition. This will prevent flames or burning material from getting out of your fireplace, and keep flammable items from getting in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Electric fireplace safety tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Electric\u00a0fireplaces make it possible to have a fireplace in a location that wouldn\u2019t normally be able to fit one. The flame isn\u2019t real, but that doesn\u2019t mean they are without risk. As a source of heat, an electric fireplace should always be treated with care. In addition to maintaining the clearance zone discussed above, observe the following safety tips when using an electric fireplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use proper cords.<\/strong>\u00a0Many companies do not recommend using extension cords for electric fireplaces. Some will allow grounded, heavy-duty cords that are the appropriate gauge and wattage rating. Make sure to follow your manufacturer’s specific guidelines to ensure your safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plug\u00a0into<\/strong> an appropriate socket.\u00a0An electric fireplace is essentially a forced air heater, and it is subject to the restrictions of a standard household socket, wiring, and fuse box. Be sure not to draw more power from your socket than it can handle, or else you run the risk of starting a real fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wood fireplace safety tips<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Replaced\u00a0by more efficient, cleaner, and safer options, wood fireplaces are less popular than they have been in the past. However, it\u2019s difficult to deny the ambiance of a crackling fire with real burning wood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Consider\u00a0what type of fire you want so that you can select the right type of wood. If\u00a0the fire is more for aesthetics, lighter wood or a synthetic log are good choices. If your fireplace is being used for heat, oak or ash may be a better fit, since they\u2019re heavier and burn hotter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n