Owning an outdoor fireplace can be a wonderful treat when the weather begins to warm up enough to be outside during the evenings. Whether you enjoy using the fireplace with your family or you like to throw large parties with all of your loved ones invited, you must take special care when children are around.
Taking care of your fireplace with the following tips will help reduce the chance of a fire.
Keep the Area Around the Fireplace Free of Decorations
It can be tempting to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your fireplace with seasonal decorations, candles, or other items. However, keeping the area clear of any combustible materials is essential to prevent potential fire hazards. Even items that seem harmless, such as dried flowers, garlands, or stockings, can easily catch fire if a spark or ember flies out of the fireplace. Additionally, decorations can obstruct airflow, which can cause the fire to burn unevenly or even create dangerous conditions. Maintaining a safe perimeter around your fireplace not only keeps your home safe but also reduces the risk of accidents when the fireplace is in use.
Set Up Some Fireplace Doors
One of the best safety measures for homes with small children is installing fireplace doors. These doors serve as a physical barrier between the fire and the room, reducing the risk of anyone accidentally touching the flames or getting too close to the heat. The doors also help prevent embers, sparks, and ashes from escaping the fireplace, which could potentially ignite nearby furniture or carpeting. Modern fireplace doors come in a range of designs, so you can find options that blend seamlessly with your décor while offering an added layer of protection. Beyond safety, the doors can help with heat efficiency, keeping warmth in the room longer.
Carefully Choose Your Firewood
The type of firewood you burn plays a key role in how safely and efficiently your fireplace operates. Hardwood, such as oak or maple, is ideal because it burns slowly and produces less creosote buildup in the chimney. Softwoods, like pine, can cause more sparks and leave more residue, which can be a fire hazard over time. Additionally, make sure your firewood is properly seasoned. Wood that is not fully dry will produce excess smoke, may not burn as efficiently, and increases the chance of sparks. Stacking and storing your firewood in a dry location is also important to ensure it’s ready to use when needed.
Always Supervise When Using the Fireplace
Whether you’re using your fireplace for ambiance or warmth, it’s crucial to never leave it unattended, especially if children or pets are in the house. Fires can change rapidly, and a small shift in the logs or a gust of wind down the chimney can cause embers to escape or the fire to grow unexpectedly. Make sure to keep tools like a fire poker and tongs nearby so you can safely manage the fire when necessary. In the event of an emergency, having a fire extinguisher within reach is also a good precaution. Continuous supervision ensures that any unexpected issues can be quickly addressed before they escalate.
Enjoying a fireplace can be a wonderful way to spend time outdoors during spring, summer, and fall, but you’ll need to keep safety in mind. Contact us for more helpful safety tips.