The holidays are about creating long-lasting memories. However, one memory you don’t want is a house fire. Fireplaces are cozy staples synonymous with the holidays but can be deadly if not properly maintained and used. Unfortunately, statistics show that approximately nine residential structural fires occur every day during the winter season, many caused by heating systems. Here are some tips to help you have a worry-free Christmas.

Schedule a Chimney Inspection & Cleaning

A dirty or blocked chimney is one of the most common causes of home heating fires. Before winter arrives, hire a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect the chimney and fireplace. Creosote, animal nests, and debris can block the chimney, increasing the fire risk.

Burn Only Seasoned Firewood

Using the right type of firewood keeps your fire burning efficiently and reduces the risk of creosote buildup. Wet or green wood produces more smoke, leading to more creosote, the number one cause of chimney fires. On the other hand, seasoned firewood burns cleaner and generates more heat.

Also, don’t burn painted or treated wood, paper, or cardboard. Remember: the fireplace is for heating; it’s not a garbage disposal.

Keep Flammable Items Away from the Fireplace

Christmas decorations like stockings, garlands, and holiday greenery add to the festive charm, but they’re flammable. Putting these items too close to the fireplace can be a recipe for disaster. Experts recommend maintaining a minimum of three feet of clearance around the fireplace.

Don’t Leave the Fireplace Unattended

It’s tempting to leave the fire burning when going to bed or out for an errand. However, this is a safety hazard. Fires are unpredictable and can quickly spread out of control. All it takes is one stray ember or spark to become a disaster.

Use a Screen or Glass Doors

A sturdy fireplace screen or glass doors can prevent sparks and embers from escaping and igniting flammable materials.

Use Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors

Fireplaces produce carbon monoxide (CO), which can be deadly. More than 100,000 people go to the emergency room yearly because of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are inexpensive, easy to install, and can save lives. If you have these devices, it’s important to test them regularly and replace the batteries if necessary.

Dispose of Ashes Safely

Another common cause of house fires is not properly disposing of ashes. Even when they appear cool, they can retain heat for several days. Experts recommend storing the ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid and placing it outside, away from combustible materials.

Don’t Overload the Fireplace

Everyone likes a huge, roaring fire. But before you pile on the wood, remember that overheating a fireplace can cause excessive heat and smoke. For best results and safety, build a small, controllable fire with a few logs at a time. This ensures better airflow and safer burning.

Be Mindful About Alcohol and Fire Safety

Holiday celebrations often include wine, beer, or festive cocktails. While it’s okay to enjoy a few drinks by the fire, alcohol can impair judgment and lead to careless behavior. Like having a designated driver, consider assigning an adult who’s not drinking to oversee the fire and ensure everyone is safe.

Keep Kids & Pets Safe

Children and pets are naturally curious about fire. However, their curiosity can lead to accidents if they get too close. Establish a no-play zone around the fireplace and use a child-proof barrier with the screen or glass doors to prevent accidental burns.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy

A fire extinguisher can be a lifesaver in case of an emergency. Every home with a fireplace should have a fire extinguisher ready to go, and everyone should know how to use it.

Fireplaces can add that magical ambiance to your Christmas and holiday celebrations, but safety must come first. By following these tips and using common sense, you can enjoy your fireplace and the holidays safely.

Call Keystone today to schedule your chimney cleaning and inspection.