Many Lafayette residents find that curling up by the fireplace is their favorite winter pastime as the temperature drops.
To keep your house and loved ones safe, you must make sure your fireplace is in perfect condition before lighting the first fire of the season. This winter, consider these important fireplace safety guidelines.
Get Your Chimney Inspected
If you’re unsure how to prepare your fireplace for winter, we highly recommend that you get in touch with a trustworthy chimney sweep to have your fireplace and chimney thoroughly inspected.
A yearly examination can help identify blockages, structural problems, and other potential hazards. The sweep will make sure your fireplace is safe to use and that everything has been cleaned thoroughly.
Keep records of all reports. Ask questions about how to use your fireplace in the winter and even the potential problems and requirements specific to your chimney while your chimney sweep is there.
Choose the Right Wood
The kind of wood you burn has a big impact on how safe your fireplace is. Use seasoned, dry hardwoods like hickory, oak, or maple at all times.
Compared to softwoods like pine, these woods burn hotter and produce less creosote. Avoid burning paper, treated wood, or anything else that can create toxic fumes.
Keep Fireplace Area Clear
Keep a minimum of three feet of clear, protected space around your fireplace. Keep combustible objects, such as decorations, blankets, and furniture, at a safe distance.
Taking this precaution reduces the risk of unintentional fires caused by sparks or embers escaping the fireplace.
Never Leave a Fire Unattended
Never leave a fire burning unattended—this is one of the most crucial fireplace safety rules. Make sure the fire is completely out before you go to bed or leave the house. Spread the embers with a fireplace poker and let them cool completely.
Install Smoke Detectors
A fireplace can produce carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can be dangerous indoors. Ensure you have working carbon monoxide and smoke detectors installed in your home.
Practice Proper Disposal
After your fire dies down, carefully dispose of the ashes by putting them in a covered metal container. Keep the container outside, away from your house and anything flammable. Ashes should be handled carefully since they can retain heat for several days.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Smoke and dangerous gasses can effectively escape from a fireplace with adequate ventilation. While the fire is burning, keep the chimney flue open and make sure nothing is blocking the airflow.
Consider Fireplace-Safe Decor
Even though a fireplace can be a lovely focal point in your home, safety must always come first when decorating. Choose non-flammable décor pieces like stone mantelpieces, metal artwork, glass candlesticks, or ceramic figurines.
Stockings, garlands, and wreaths are examples of combustible décor that should not be placed too close to the fireplace opening.
Read more: Working with an Awkward Floor Plan
Safe and Stylish Fireplaces are Possible
At Albarado’s Fine Furnishings, we believe that your fireplace should not only be safe but also add to the aesthetic appeal of your house. To help you create a stylish and functional fireplace area, we offer interior design services in Lafayette, Alexandria, Pineville, and surrounding areas.
To arrange a free design consultation and learn how we can turn your fireplace into a beautiful focal point for your living space, get in touch with us today.