Every year you read or hear stories about yet another fire that started in a fireplace. Sometimes the fire was in the living room, while others started on the roof.
While the winter season has passed us, many chimney owners will occasionally light a summer fire, especially on a cold rainy July night. No matter the season, your fireplace should be treated properly and not forgotten about. Fireplaces are a great addition to a home, but only if you use them safely.
Using Dry Wood
Fireplace owners know that the wood used should be on the dry side, but keep in mind that wood with some moisture in it is beneficial as well. About 20% of dry wood still holds moisture and that moisture helps to slow down the time it takes for the wood to burn. This reduces the embers that can fly either out of your fireplace (if you don’t use the screen) or up your chimney where they belong.
Don't Burn Your Beautiful Wrapping Paper
Whether you are opening presents during the holidays or a birthday, you may be tempted to burn that pesky wrapping paper in your fireplace. We warn you to avoid doing this. Sure, it burns, but it burns quickly, is quite light and the embers really fly. Some fly right up the chimney and onto your roof or your landscaping! This is dangerous and can cause serious damage to your home and your neighbors home as the embers spread. Flourescent and bright wrapping paper has finishes and ink that could very well be toxic at high temperatures. Don’t burn rolled newspapers, charcoal, garbage or plastic in your fireplace and never use an accelerant. If you have trouble starting the fire, you can use crumpled newspaper on the grate and then put the logs on top of it.