The most common reason a fireplace causes a house fire is due to creosote buildup or obstructions in the chimney. In the end, wood-burning fires cause a thick layer of soot and ash, called creosote, on the inside of the chimney walls. If not properly cleaned, this material can ignite, causing significant damage to the property and threatening the safety of everyone in the home. Other hassles, such as dead leaves, bird nests, or falling bricks can block the airflow in the chimney and cause sparks to fly out into the room, possibly igniting rugs, nearby décor, or furniture. In the case of gas fireplaces, and obstructed chimney could cause dangerous fumes to vent into the home. Either setting is absolutely threatening for you and the home’s other residents, if any.
To avoid these and other problems, there are several important steps that you should observe. First, use only the recommended types of fuel for your fireplace. For wood-burning fireplaces, that is dried and well-seasoned wood free of any chemicals or accelerants. For gas or electric fireplaces, never put anything in the flames. This can cause showers of sparks and hot ash capable of starting the house on fire. Chimney fires can become as hot as 2000°F, hot enough to destroy bricks, dissolve metal, and get your attic, siding, and roof on fire. Correct use of your fireplace is one of the best ways to avoid such dangers.
Next, make it a point to supervise the use of your fireplace carefully. For both gas and wood fireplaces, never leave the fireplace lit unsupervised. It is paramount to have an updated fire extinguisher nearby and to make sure that you regularly change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. If your fireplace has an operating manual, keep it in an accessible location for easy reference. Do not come too close to the fireplace while it’s lit and make sure to watch any pets carefully to evade burns and catastrophes.
Categorically, you must check with your property manager or landlord to examine if the fireplace is being regularly inspected and cleaned. An exceptional property manager will get a fireplace serviced regularly to ensure that it is in good working condition and ventilating correctly. To stay safe, it is good to observe that pilot lights, valves, and sensors are working correctly and that you comprehend how to use your fireplace correctly. If your landlord gives you materials on fire safety, read through them carefully before attempting to use your fireplace. For tenants, complying on suitable fireplace safety is a vital part of getting you and your belongings out of the danger’s way.
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