Fireplace and Chimney Safety

There's nothing New Englanders enjoy more this than a cozy fire. Following are some important maintenance and safety tips that will ensure the fire is contained to the firebox where it belongs.

Have your fireplace inspected annually.
Your chimney sweep can examine creosote build-up, the condition of the bricks, mortar, tile and flue, as well as chimney caps and flashing and make necessary recommendations.

Keep your masonry in good repair.
Bricks or clay tiles can suffer wear & tear and break over time. This allows heat and fumes access to the home causing an increased fire hazard.

Clean your fireplace after you have burned one cord of wood.
A cord of wood measures 4' tall, by 4' wide, and 8' long.

Avoid burning soft woods.
Hard woods leave less creosote deposit. Creosote is a blackish brown residue that sticks to chimney walls. It is highly combustible and should be removed regularly.

Never burn paper in a fireplace.
Ash can rise out of the fireplace and ignite the roof and surrounding vegetation.

Never leave a fire unattended.
Sparks can sometimes get through mesh screens and land on carpeting, hardwood floors and furniture.

Tips courtesy of ServiceMaster by Gilmore Brothers