Tips for Fireplace Safety:

• Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned at least once per year
  
• Install bird and animal guards on the chimney
  
• Repair cracks in the flue lining, bricks, and mortar
  
• Check with your local stove and fireplace accessory store for a chimney fire extinguisher
• Learn which type of woods and seasoned woods are best to burn
  
• Never use building scraps, paneling, plywood, and treated lumber as fuel
  
• Keep the damper open while fuel is burning to prevent accumulation of poisonous or explosive gases.
  
• Do not use gasoline or other flammable liquids to kindle or rekindle a fire
  
• Always use a fireplace screen or glass doors
  
• Clean ashes out of the fireplace regularly
  
• Remove colored comic sections from newspapers before using in the fireplace. The colored inks contain lead and can produce toxic gases
  
• Do not use coal, charcoal or polystyrene packing in a fireplace
  
• Do not treat artificial logs the same way you would real wood logs. Use only one at a time
• Keep children away from the fire. Their clothing can easily catch fire
  
• Be sure the fire is completely extinguished before retiring for the evening