Hot topic: Practice fireplace safety

While a fireplace can be the perfect remedy for a winter’s chill, it’s also an open flame source that demands respect and attention. So, before your fireplace sees its first use of the season, be sure to take these steps:

• Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected annually by a professional chimney sweep.
• Keep a working fire extinguisher near your fireplace at all times.
• Ensure a mesh metal screen or glass fireplace door is in place to prevent embers from escaping.

Now that you’re ready to start your fire, always practice these basic fireplace safety rules:

• Only build small, manageable fires, as they will produce less smoke and burn more completely.
• Do not use flammable liquids of any kind to start a fire.
• Don’t use your fireplace to burn trash, cardboard boxes or other debris.
• Never leave any fire unattended.
• Keep your fireplace’s damper open when a fire is burning and closed when it’s not.

By following proper fireplace safety, you can help ensure a safe and warm winter season for you and your family.