Delicious Indoor Open Fires: Safety First

July 9, 2019
Posted By admin

There is nothing nicer on a cold winter’s night than snuggling up with a cosy rug, a book or a movie, and a cup of hot chocolate (or mulled wine!) in front of a cracking open fire. The entire atmosphere of an open fire is a feast for the senses: dancing flames, crackling logs, the sweet aroma of great quality firewood, and delicious warmth which has no equal.

There are some very important things to consider if you have an open fire, however, especially if it is located indoors. For all of its attractions, there are some inherent dangers in using a fireplace, and it is much better to take proper steps before enjoying your fireplace to ensure that you will love it all winter long, without mishap or disaster.

Many winter house fires are triggered in chimneys; additionally, there are deaths every year due to accidental carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of poorly vented heating. Proper attention to the care and maintenance of your chimney will dramatically reduce the risks of either of these.

Here is some basic advice to maintain your chimney and too ensure the safety and wellbeing of your family…

Have your chimney cleaned and checked by a professional chimney sweep every autumn, before you light the first fire of the season. Chimneys are complex, and can be difficult to clean, so it is not recommended that one do it themself. A certified, professional chimney sweep will also test the ventilation system of the chimney to make certain it is performing optimally. (This will also ensure no critters have taken up residence in the chimney).

Always have both working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms installed throughout your home. These should be hardwired, be tested regularly, and have a battery back-up. They should be located on every floor, and outside every sleeping area. Remember that carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless poisonous gas and it can’t be smelled, seen or tasted. Blocked or unclean chimney vents can produce carbon monoxide, and it is impossible for humans to detect and if one is exposed, sleepiness comes quickly, potentially leading to death.

Have a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket located near the fireplace in an easily accessible location in case of emergency.

Place fire screens in front of the fireplace to control sparks, and to also help keep children and pets away from the fire.

Use premium dry wood in fireplaces at all times. Never use wrapping paper, trash, cardboard boxes, or any kind of accelerant for kindling – these are all prone to cause a chimney fire.

Always remember when lighting a fire to open the fireplace flue; gas and smoke will be vented out of the house properly.

Perth firewood suppliers Oakwood Fire and Mulch guarantee premium quality, dry hardwood for fireplaces, and we deliver it to your door. Call us today to supply you with your firewood for winter.