7 Fireplace Safety Tips for Families

Fireplaces are one of winter’s greatest pleasures. When it’s cold outside, nothing sounds better than curling up on the couch in front of the warm fireplace with a good book or your favorite TV show. A bedroom fireplace can be even cozier. 

But a fireplace also requires extra safety measures — after all, you’re literally bringing fire into your house, which means anything from screens to fireplace bumpers for infants can be of the utmost importance. So before you use your fireplace this season, take these necessary fireplace safety steps to feel snug all winter long with peace of mind. To make sure your home is covered no matter what happens, speak to a Farm Bureau agent.

1. Keep It Clean

A fireplace offers warmth and creates a welcoming ambiance. There’s just something about a crackling, warm flame that is soothing to watch and listen to. But if it’s not well-cared for, it can present fire safety concerns. Keeping your fireplace clean and carefully maintained is the key to avoiding problems. 

These cleaning tips can prevent fireplace hazards and make sure that your home stays safe:

• Have the chimney cleaned annually, as buildup in the flue can be dangerous.
• Clean the firebox between fires. It’s a good idea to discard the ashes once they have cooled as well — and be aware, ashes can take several days to cool completely. Here are some tips on disposing of ashes safely.
• Check the chimney regularly to ensure that birds or rodents haven’t built nests inside, and that it is clear and free from blockages. A clear chimney ensures that it can operate properly!

2. Use a Screen and Infant Bumpers

A fireplace safety screen can prevent debris and embers from escaping the fireplace and landing on floors and carpets. A fireplace safety gate can also help keep kids at a safe distance. The safety gate can be used for both woodburning fireplaces and gas fireplaces.

Furthermore, if you have infants or toddlers in your home, consider installing padded foam guards that cover the hearth and gates, which create a physical barrier to keep young children at a safe distance from the alluring flames.

3. Reduce the Smoke

A smoky house is neither healthy nor pleasant. Luckily, you can have a warm, inviting fire without a smoke-filled house this winter and holiday season. To help prevent accidentally generating smoke when you light your fireplace:

• Select the right type of wood to burn. Using dry and well-aged wood will make your fire burn more cleanly. Using wet or green wood could cause more smoke, while dried wood burns with less smoke and more evenly.
• Use smaller pieces of wood instead of large chunks. The smaller pieces will burn faster and reduce smoke.

4. Look for Flammable Risks

Before you use your fireplace, make sure there’s nothing placed in front of it or around it that could catch on fire. Curtains, decorations, books, furniture, wrapping paper and other items that can easily go up in flames are all at risk. Be smart about what goes near the fire.

5. Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

In the best-case scenario, you’ll never have to use it, but having a fire extinguisher nearby is a must. You never know when you might need it — better safe than sorry. 

6. Never Leave an Active Fireplace Unattended

Even leaving a fire unattended for a few minutes can be dangerous, especially with children or pets in the house. Before going to bed or leaving the house, make sure the fire is completely put out and secured.

7. Talk Fire Safety With Kids

Educating children on the safety risks of fires and the heat that fires produce is an important way to keep them safe. Spending time around the warm fireplace is a great way to enjoy family time and creating a safe environment is key to a lasting, happy home life.

Keep Your Family Safe at Home

Be sure your home is properly protected with homeowners coverage. Connect with Farm Bureau today to discuss your options and find the policy that’s right for you and your needs!