Proper
Fireplace Cleaning Tips
The Woodward Volunteer Fire & Rescue
Department would like to remind citizens of the following safety tips so that
with the cold weather, they can enjoy the warmth of their fireplace safely.
When you clean your fireplace, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Proper
disposal of Fireplace ashes:
Garden areas or flower beds are
ideal locations to dump cooled fireplace ashes, allowing many nutrients to
return to the soil. Please survey the area and evaluate any additional hazards
before disposing of your cooled ashes. Make sure all dry leaves have been
removed from the area before dumping your ashes in either a garden or flower
bed that is away from the house and moisten the area.
What can you do to help?
The most important contribution you as a homeowner can make is simply to
heed our message of prevention and tell family and friends. Our goal is to
eliminate fireplace ashes related fire in
Heat... Without Getting Burned
Accidents with heating equipment are the number
one causes of all home fires. And, most of these fires could have been
prevented with proper understanding and use of heating equipment. To reduce the
changes of a fire in your home, it is vital that you purchase tested and
labeled heating equipment, install and maintain it correctly, and operate it
safely. Here are some tips that will help you heat your home... without getting
burned.
Give Space Heaters Space:
Place portable heaters at least 36 inches (3 feet) away from things that
burn - - - paper, bedding, clothing, furniture, or curtains. Remember always to
turn off space heaters before leaving home or going to bed.
Don't Add Fuel Until It's Cool:
If your heater runs on liquid fuel, such as kerosene, let the heater cool
down before refueling. Adding fuel to a hot heater can start a dangerous fire.
When purchasing fuel, make sure it is the right type for you heater.
Use the Right Fuel:
With liquid-fueled heaters, use only fuel recommended by the manufacturer.
Never use substitutes or lower-grade fuels. Never ever put gasoline in a
heater! Remember to burn only wood in your fireplace or woodstove.
Check For Frayed or Hot Wires:
Inspect the cords on your electric heaters. If the cord is frayed or
splitting, or if it overheats when the heater is in operation, watch out!
You've got a fire hazard on your hands. Do not use the heater until you've had
the cord replaced by an appliance repair person.
Keep Your Chimney Clean:
The build-up combustible creosote and carbon deposits in the chimney pose a
dangerous fire threat. Have your chimney inspected by a professional before
every heating season and cleaned if necessary. If you use a woodstove, be sure
to have chimney connections and flues inspected and cleaned. Consider
installing a spark arrestor on top of your chimney, especially if you live in a
wooded or densely populated area.
Don't Build a Fire Without a Screen:
Whenever you have a fire in the fireplace, always place a screen made of
sturdy metal or heat-tempered glass on the hearth. This will prevent sparks or
burning wood from escaping the fireplace and starting a fire in your home.
Don't Leave Children Alone With a Heater:
Portable heaters should be used only when there is an adult present. Remove
them from any rooms where children are playing alone. Purchase portable heaters
that have a broad, solid base with an automatic shut-off switch in case they
are knocked over accidentally.
Use Woodstoves Wisely:
If you have a wood or coal stove, be sure it is installed at least 36
inches away from the wall. Keep combustible materials well away from the stove
and chimney connector. Place an approved stove broad under the unit to protect
the floor from heat and hot coals which might drop out. Follow the
manufacture's installation and maintenance instructions of the unit.
Be Prepared!
No matter how careful you are with home heating, you and your family should
be prepared in case fire strikes.