Have you decorated your mantle for the holiday season? The stockings hanging and the fireplace glowing are some of the things we love about winter. However, before you enjoy your fireplace, it is important to make sure your chimney is ready to take on the season.
Chimney Cleaning
It is recommended that your chimney is inspected and cleaned each year. When your chimney is cleaned, soot, creosote and glaze are removed, eliminating a number of hazards. Creosote is the residue built up in your chimney from wood that doesn’t burn completely; it is highly flammable. Glaze is a substance, similar to tar, that creates black puddles in the chimney. Because it is more dense, glaze is more of a fire hazard than creosote. Chimney sweeps can remove these substances without making a mess in your home.
Fire Prevention
Chimneys, fireplaces, candles, stoves, and more can be a source for a potential home fire. Follow some of these safety tips to keep your home and your family safe.
- Make sure you have smoke alarms on every level of your home, and regularly check the batteries.
- Only burn seasoned firewood in your fireplace; less moisture in the wood means less soot and creosote buildup.
- For the holidays, do not place wrapped packages near the fireplace. Keep any combustible materials at least three feet away from heat sources.
- Don’t burn wrapping paper, boxes, or other garbage in the fireplace.
- Do not dispose of your Christmas tree by burning it in the fireplace. The wood may become a fire hazard.
- Always have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Have a peace of mind this holiday season by taking precautionary measures to keep everyone safe. For more holiday safety measures or to ensure your home is in proper condition for the winter season, call us at Heatmasters – we’d be happy to help!
Courtesy of Northeastern Chimney
http://www.mychimney.com/blog/about/winter-fireplace-safety/
