Tips

Get an annual chimney check. Have chimneys inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a
qualified professional chimney service technician. This reduces the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisonings
due to cresote build up or obstructions in the chimneys

Install a chimney cap to  keep debris, animals, rain and snow out of the chimney.

Choose the right fuel. For burning firewood in wood stoves or fireplaces, choose well seasoned wood that has
been split for a minimum of six months - one year and stored in a covered and elevated location. Never burn
Christmas trees or treated wood in your fireplace or wood stove.

Build it right. Place firewood or fire logs at the rear of the fireplace on a supporting grate. To start the fire, use
kindling or a commercial firelighter.  Never use flammable liquids.

Use a fireplace screen. Use metal mesh or a screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could
ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring.

Keep the hearth area clear. Combustible material too close to the fireplace, or to a wood stove, could easily
catch fire. Keep furniture at least 36" away from the hearth.

Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  Place detectors throughout the house and check batteries
in the spring and fall. When you change your clocks for Daylight Savings Time, remember to check your
batteries.

Never leave a fire unattended. Before turning in for the evening, be sure that the fire is fully extinguished.
Supervise children and pets closely around woodstoves and fireplaces.