Safety Tips for Your Fireplace

We all love the warmth of a roaring fireplace, especially during winter. The enjoyment you get from a fireplace also come with a great deal of responsibility.  You have to ensure that the fireplace and its accessories are safe at all times.  Here are some important tips to consider if you have a wood-burning fireplace in your home

Periodic Inspections

It is very important to have your fireplace inspected by an expert at least once a year. By doing this you will be able to know if your fireplace is safe to use. Any wear and tear can also be identified and rectified.

Use a Grate

The surface of a fireplace can withstand high temperatures, however; the adjacent floor needs to be protection from the heat. The grate comes in handy since it keeps the burning wood from being in direct contact with the floor.  In the long run, this accessory will help extend the life expectancy of a fireplace.

Regular Cleaning

Ensure that the ashes have cooled for about a full day then discard them.  This will ensure that there is no unnecessary accumulation of ash which may hamper the quality of fire.

Extinguisher

It’s better safe than sorry so ensure that you have a fire extinguisher close by just in case sparks fly and start a fire in the wrong place.  If possible try and install smoke as well as carbon monoxide detectors.