According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America, there are an average of 24,300 structural fires every year originating from the chimney or fireplace. The best way to prevent this from happening is learning safety tips that you can use to help maintain your chimney and protect your household.
Conduct Frequent Inspections
Hire a certified company with trained professionals to conduct an inspection for obstructions. They should make sure that the flue is capped to prevent rain, animals, and debris from getting inside.
Hire Chimney Sweepers
Every year, have chimney sweepers come to your home to clean away the soot (also called creosote). The soot can pile up in your chimney and, since it’s flammable, can become very dangerous to you and your home.
Install Smoke Detectors
Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. Although you can find plug-in units, ones that hang close to the ceiling would be ideal to detect the problem quicker.
Fuel Choice
Choose seasoned hard wood to prevent out of control fires. Don’t use your Christmas tree, pressure-treated wood, painted scrap pieces, or liquid starters.
Room Design
When it comes to laying out your furniture around the fireplace, make sure that everything is at least 36-inches from from your fireplace. Over time, the heat can cause furniture to become more flammable, so protect yourself by moving the furniture back. Above all else, never leave your fireplace burning unattended. You should always watch it closely, so you can protect your family and your home if anything happens.
Should you need a chimney sweep in Acworth or surrounding areas, please give us a call today.