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Fireplaces & Wood Stoves - Indoor Safety
Purpose - Fireplaces and wood stoves are used for primary or secondary heating.
Some fireplaces burn natural gas instead of wood.
Dangers - Fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, natural gas leaks.
Prevention -
- Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Inspect fireplaces or wood stoves before each year's heating season.
- Inspect flues and chimneys annually.
Emergency - Follow the Emergency Procedures if:
- You suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
- There is a fire.
- You smell gas.
Safety Tips -
- Check local building codes before installing a fireplace or wood stove.
- Keep the area around fireplaces or wood stoves free of clutter.
- Check your chimney and flue annually for creosote build-up.
- Never vent a wood stove or fireplace to the same chimney as your furnace.
- Make certain your home has adequate ventilation.
- Only use fuels for which your stove or fireplace has been designed.
- Keep all-purpose fire extinguishers on each floor of your home. Check them regularly. Know how to use them.
- Make sure chimney roof vents are not blocked by ice or debris.
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