4 Indoor Fireplace Safety Requirements

Safety Advisory: Indoor Fireplaces

There is nothing quite as comforting as the crackle of a warm fire. A fireplace can also be a great alternative heat source in the colder months to help save on oil or gas bills. However, indoor fireplaces can also be dangerous if you don’t exercise proper caution. In fact, the U.S. Fire administration says that over one-third of all house fires in rural areas are a result of home heating. The most common hazard is the buildup of creosote, a tar-like substance that can ignite when it mixes with hot air in your chimney.

There are a few simple, but important things you can do to keep your home and family safe while enjoying your indoor fireplace.

Have your chimney and fireplace or wood burning stove inspected and cleaned by a professional every season. Many companies offer convenient maintenance plan and send annual reminders of the services you need.
Be smart when starting a fire. Never use lighter fluid or other flammable liquids. Never burn trash or other debris. Make sure your fire burns down completely and always wet ashes to remove and place them in a metal container (coffee cans work great) outside.
Avoid outdoor fire hazards like leaves and pine needles on the roof or in gutters. Stack firewood at least 30 feet from the house, and be sure your chimney top is covered with a screen.
Practice indoor fire safety whether you have an indoor fireplace or not. This includes keeping smoke detector on every level and outside every bedroom as well as checking batteries monthly. Also be sure that any heat source in your home is properly vented.

Fireplaces provide beautiful natural fire and can give off significant heat to warm your living space through the winter. Whether you are using an electric fireplace, wood-burning fireplace or the new gel fuel fireplace, following these important safety tips can ensure you safely enjoy all that an indoor fireplace has to offer.