Be Safe Using the Fireplace
As the winter season is upon us, the temperature is going to start to drop. While there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a fire, there are some essential safety tips to take into consideration. Many are turning to their fireplace as a source of heat to cozy their homes and warm their hearts.
Before you spark up the logs, brush up on your fire safety tips so you can enjoy your fireplace!
- Hire a chimney sweep – At least once a year, phone your trusty chimney sweep to clean the chimney, remove soot and debris, and save any birds or pests that may be living in the pipes.
- Inspect for damage – In addition to cleaning, the chimney sweep should inspect the structure for cracks, loose bricks, or missing mortar.
- Cap the chimney – Install a cap with wire-mesh sides to keep rain, birds, squirrels, and debris from entering.
- Only burn seasoned hardwoods – Choose dense wood that is completely dry. Softwoods can produce flammable by-products, and throwing your Christmas’ wrapping paper on the fire is an absolute no-no.
- Don’t rush it – Never add flammable objects or liquids onto the fire to get it burning. This can be extremely dangerous!
- Keep it away – Keep combustible objects a minimum of three feet away from any fireplace.
- Use a spark guard – Place a metal screen in front of the fire to catch burning embers or shifting logs.
- Use it right – Never use a fireplace for grilling food.
To keep your home safe during the colder season, ensure that it has the best protection. Visit the professionals at American Advantage – IFS Inc. to take care of your home this winter season! Contact us in Pewaukee for all of your Wisconsin homeowners insurance needs today.
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