KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – FIREPLACE TIPS

KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – FIREPLACE TIPS

Now that the weather is turning colder more people will be starting to use their fireplaces. There are a few safety tips you should be aware of before the first fire. Most important is to have fully functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Detectors are available now with 10 year batteries so no more changing batteries when the time changes.

Hire a chimney professional to evaluate and clean your fireplace every few years. More often if you use it a lot. They can advise you as to a proper schedule according to your usage.

Never leave a fire unattended. Make sure all fires are completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.

Burning wood can spit out dangerous embers that can ignite nearby material. Keep clutter and flammable objects away from the area around the fireplace and use a metal screen to reduce embers.

After the fire goes out keep the damper open until all the smoke clears. Then make sure it’s fully closed to prevent all the heat from going up the chimney. Glass doors also help prevent heat loss.

Always make sure to burn only seasoned hardwood. Certain processed wood such as pressure treated types can give off dangerous chemicals as well as cardboard Christmas paper and other trash.

With a little thought and preparation we can have a comfortable and safe fireplace season.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO