Fireplace Safety

When it’s chilly outside, sitting by the warm fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa is a cozy way to relax in the Winter months. Before you sit down to sip your cocoa and enjoy the warmth of the fire, remember these fireplace safety tips:

fireplace safety, fireplace tips,

Did you inspect & clean the chimney? We recommend hiring a certified chimney sweep at least once a year to inspect and clean your chimney before using it again for the first time.

Check the damper. Make sure the damper is open before starting the fire. You can check the damper by looking in the chimney; a mirror usually helps. Leave the damper open until the fire is done burning.

Ashes. Did you know the thicker the ashes in the fireplace, the more smoke is produced? Thick ashes will lessen air flow to the logs. Clean out cooled ashes before placing logs inside the fireplace.

Home Insurance. If you have a fireplace, or install a new fireplace, let your insurance agent know to update your policy, so that if there is damage or loss to your fireplace, you are reimbursed properly.

Fireplace tools.  If you have kids or grandchildren coming to visit for the holidays, store fireplace tools out of reach of children. Always keep an eye on them while near the fireplace and warn them to be cautious around the fireplace.

Fireplace glass. Fireplace glass should be kept open just enough to let air into the fire but closed enough to block any sparks that could jump out.


Seasoned wood. This Old House recommends using a “dense wood, such as oak, that’s been split and stored in a high and dry place. Green wood and softwoods like pine produce more creosote, a flammable by-product of combustion that can build up in the chimney.”

Smoke Detector & Carbon Monoxide Detector. Install both a smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector and make sure the batteries work. Remember to test the batteries monthly.

Also, let your home insurance agent know about the detectors because it could mean a discount on your policy.

Hopefully, your fireplace is safer with these tips and your cocoa is still hot! If you have questions about fireplaces and insurance give us a call 231.755.3000 | 616.755.3000

Karlee Miller
Creative Administrator

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