All homeowners should take the responsibility of having a fireplace seriously. Although they are designed to contain fire, they still raise the chances of a house fire when used. However, if they are managed properly, a fireplace can be a wonderful asset to a home.



Using the Fireplace

When starting a fire, place the fuel at the back of the firebox. Never use fuel that is not meant for the fireplace. Do not use wood with a gas system. Only use commercial firewood or natural aged wood in a traditional fireplace; Do not use cardboard or chemically treated wood.

Remember that a fire needs plenty of oxygen to burn. Modern homes are usually very well insulated, but this can allow a fire to use all of the oxygen inside without pulling any from outside. Make sure that the house is ventilated and fresh air can come in while the fire is burning.

Never leave a fire burning unattended. Let the fire burn out, remove the ashes, douse them, and take the outside.

Children and Fireplaces

Most children have natural curiosity about fire and are attracted to fireplaces. Parents should actively supervise their children when a fire is lit and teach them about fire safety. Though children may want to help stir the fire or add another log, it is usually not good to let them do so. Simply explain the fireplace can be dangerous. Also, warn children never to start a fire when an adult is not around.

Most home fireplaces have raised stone hearths, but they may be harmful to toddlers and infants. Keep young children away from the fireplace so that they do not fall and hurt themselves. Some parents pad the hearth and add bumpers to sharp corners when their children are learning how to walk.

Cleaning the Fireplace

A dirty fireplace can cause a lot of damage to a home. As a fire burns, carbon and other substances in smoke can gather in the flue and prevent proper ventilation. Smoke from burning wood contains creosote, a highly flammable build-up that can completely block a chimney.

The debris that is stuck inside the fireplace can catch fire. If a fire starts inside of the flue, there is very little the homeowner can do to put it out. The entire house can catch fire this way. The closing off of the chimney can also force smoke and carbon monoxide back into the home. If a fire is burning without proper ventilation, the air inside the house can quickly become unbreathable.

In order to avoid thee problems, make sure to have the chimney swept and other components cleaned as often as is advised by the manufacturer. Most wood-burning fireplaces that see regular use during the winter need to be clean at least once a year. Gas and rarely used fireplaces need to be cleaned less often. However, always clean a fireplace that has not been used in several years before lighting a fire, because other objects could have made their way into the flue.

Most areas have professional chimney sweeping services that will clean the flue for a fair price. They also know about fireplace safety and maintenance and can advise the homeowner on issues such as deterioration or improper ventilation.

Practicing Home Fire Safety

Every homeowner should create a fire safety plan with his or her family, but those with fireplaces should be extra sensitive to the possibility of a house fire. The family should determine a meeting place outside of the home where they can perform a head count. Children should be taught the "stop, drop, and roll" procedure as well as how to exit the house through a window or other alternate route.

Make sure that there are working smoke detectors in every level of the house and regularly check the battery. The kitchen and rooms with fireplaces should be stocked with fire extinguishers.

Be Careful

Even those who follow the rules of fireplace safety should still be careful around their fireplace. It is always possible for a fire to spread, so it is wise to be prepared. Homeowners should make a point to teach their family about fire safety and take the necessary steps to keep all of the systems of their home in working order.