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With
ever-increasing fuel costs, heating with wood has become popular in recent
years. But it can be dangerous if fireplaces and wood stoves are not
maintained and cleaned on a regular basis. To prevent fires and carbon
monoxide poisonings, the National Fire Protection Association recommends
that all chimneys be inspected on an annual basis. If a crack or hole in the
flue or masonry isn't repaired, sparks could go through the openings and
into the attic or the wood framework surrounding the chimney and cause a
devastating house fire.
The Chimney
Safety Institute of America (CSIA) offers tips to keep wood burning
fireplaces and wood stoves clean and clear from the top of the chimney to
bottom of the firebox:
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Have
chimneys inspected annually, and
cleaned as necessary, by a CSIA Certified
Chimney Sweep. This reduces the risk of
fires and carbon monoxide poisonings due
to creosote buildup or obstructions in the
chimneys. A certified sweep can also
perform maintenance on your wood stove
or help remove gas logs from a fireplace. |
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Keep the top
of chimneys clear of tree
limbs or debris. |
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Install a
chimney cap to keep debris and
animals out of the chimney |
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Fuel the
fire safely. For burning firewood
in wood stoves or fireplaces, choose
well-seasoned wood that has been dried
for a minimum of six months to a year and stored properly. |
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Build it
right. Place firewood or firelogs at the rear of the fireplace on a
supporting grate. To start the fire, use a firelighter. |
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Keep the
hearth area clear. Debris too close to the fireplace, or to a wood
stove, could easily catch fire. |
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Use a
fireplace screen. Use a metal, mesh or screen in front of the fireplace
to catch flyaway sparks that could ignite. |
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Be careful
not to overload the fireplace. Add one manufactured firelog at a time or
no more than a couple of pieces of firewood. Never burn garbage or
glossy paper products. |
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Install
smoke and carbon
monoxide detectors. Place detectors throughout the house and make
sure to check the batteries each month. |
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Never leave
a fire unattended. Before turning in for the evening, be sure that the
fire is fully extinguished. Supervise children and pets closely around
wood stoves and fireplaces. |
Also
review the
Holiday Fire & Burglary Prevention tips from last
December.
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