3 Wood Heat Safety Tips

Fired up for the warm crackle of a wood heat stove or fireplace this winter?

Before you light the kindling, ensure your stove or fireplace is ready for the season by following these tips!

Inspect and Clean

Ash and creosote naturally build up inside a wood heat stove and fireplace when you burn wood. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for your device maintenance and cleaning; scheduling an annual inspection is also a fairly common best practice. To keep your stove or fireplace in tip top shape, we suggest hiring a professional chimney sweep to complete the maintenance and cleaning.

Use a Screen

If your wood burning fireplace is designed without a cover, consider purchasing a good quality screen. A screen provides protection for the floor and carpets and moves easily so you can tend to the fire. It also prevents children from getting too close to the flames.

Install Safety Features

Purchase an ABC-type fire extinguisher and store it near your wood heat stove or fireplace. If a fire catches outside of its intended spot, you are prepared to put it out. Another essential safety feature for your home is a carbon monoxide detector. If the ventilation or flue of your stove or fireplace is blocked, carbon monoxide will build up in your home. A detector will alert you if a build up occurs, so you and your family can safely exit the home.

Bonus

Did you know that dry, well-aged wood burns the best? You will be able to start the fire easily, see less smoke and ash, and a enjoy a better burn. You can identify seasoned wood by checking the ends of the log to see if they are darkened and have cracks or splits. It should be, relatively, light weight and make a “clunk” when two pieces are beat together. You can also purchase a moisture meter to know exactly how much moisture is in the logs.