Every year, thousands of homes are destroyed by fires, which were started by unsafe or improper use of a fireplace.  All of these fires could have been prevented if certain safety precautions were followed.  The following safety tips can help keep your family and home safe from fire.  

Tip 1:  Always keep the area near and around the fireplace free from debris and clutter.  Fireplaces are cozy inviting place to read by, however, when newspapers and other flammable materials are left were burning embers fall, fires can start.  Therefore, keep the areas near fireplaces to clean of debris, paper, kindling, and other clutter.  

Tip 2: Have your fireplace and chimney cleaned and inspect annually.  During the summer, leafs, and debris can clog your chimney, preventing the smoke from exiting your home properly.  In addition, the debris could catch fire.  Another reason to have your chimney cleaned annually is to remove the build up of creosote, which is a flammable material that can cause chimney fires and if inhaled in strong concentrations may cause severe neurological disturbances. 

Tip 3: Be careful about the amount of wood you burn at any given time.  Too much wood could cause a fire to grow out of control quickly.  The more wood you burn, the more heat will be produced, and the larger the flames.  In addition, do not burn anything in the fireplace such as newspapers, newspaper, or garbage.  You should only burn wood or manufactured fire log.    

Tip 4: Always make sure that you keep a fire extinguisher close by in case of emergencies.  Fires can grow and spread quickly, leaving you little or no time to search for the fire extinguisher.  In addition, make sure that your home has working smoke and CO₂ alarms.  If your smoke alarms are battery powered, then make sure to replace them every six months.    

Tip 5: Never leave your fire unattended and always keep children and pets away from the fire.  When you go to bed or leave the house, make sure that the fire has burned out.   

If you following these simple tips, then you can ensure you and your family will be able to enjoy your fire safely for years to come.