Winter is Coming! Tips to Get Your Fireplace Ready for the Season

11/10/2021 (Permalink)

Days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping fast. With most of us spending more time at home than ever before, now is the time to get your home ready for cold weather. One way to do that is to prepare your fireplace for a winter's worth of cozy fires.

Before that first fire of the season, have your fireplace and chimney inspected by a qualified chimney inspector. They will look for signs of deterioration and be sure your fireplace is properly ventilated. The type of fuel you use and how often you use your fireplace will determine if your chimney will need to be swept. 

When it's time to collect wood to burn, use dry and well-aged wood. Wet or green wood creates more smoke and causes more soot to accumulate in the chimney. 

Clean out ash from previous fires. Only one inch of ash should remain in the base of the fireplace. More than that can create more smoke and impact proper ventilation. 

If possible, keep a window cracked while you utilize your fireplace to encourage proper ventilation in your home.

Never leave a fire burning unattended. Do not go to bed or leave your home while your fire is still burning. 

Check to be sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order. Also, keep a fire extinguisher on hand and teach family members how to use it if necessary. 

Keep the area around the fireplace clear of items that could easily catch fire such as furniture, draperies, books, newspapers, rugs, etc. 

Teach children about the dangers of fires and never leave children unattended near a fire. 

Cozy fires are a joy during the winter months in Indiana. Follow these tips to keep your family safe while staying in. If your home or business is damaged by fire or smoke this winter season, call the restoration professionals at SERVPRO of Joliet.