Wood fireplaces are fantastic and often provide lots of families with warmth during cold winter months. They are not only cheap but easily accessible. However, despite all the many good things that it can offer, highlighting wood fireplaces safety needs to be addressed. The last thing you want is an accident that is a result of something that is meant to keep your family warm and safe. In this article, we look at crucial safety tips that should be followed by anyone who has a wood fireplace.
1. Make sure you use well-dried wood
Whenever you are buying logs to use in your fireplace, it is always good to insist on getting logs that have been well dried. By well-dried logs, we mean those that have been drying for not less than eight months.
When choosing between hardwood or softwood for your use, it is essential to consider some of the pros and cons that come with each type. Hardwoods are useful because they burn for long, on the other hand, softwoods burn pretty well only that you will have to add more wood regularly to keep the house warm.
2. Ensure that you only use firewood
Many timber products can be used to light fires; however, avoid those that are treated with chemicals. It is because they will release those chemicals out in the air and are likely to cause respiratory ailments, primarily if used for a considerable amount of time. That is why it could be a good idea to opt for firewood. That said, if you want to purchase firewood for sale, then you can check out the webpage of Cutting Edge Firewood.
3. Always leave the damper closed anytime you are not using the fireplace
By doing this, you will ensure that you keep the heat within the house where it is meant to be and not rushing out via the chimney. You also get to save lots of money by doing this as you stop the heat from leaving your house and going to waste.
4. Have a Chimney Cap Installed
This is very important because it will keep you safe from things such as rain and snow and prevent them from getting into the chimney. Caps will often come with vents on their sides, which allow smoke to pass through. It is essential when getting a chimney to ensure that it is made out of stainless steel because unlike galvanized metal, it does not rust. Seek the assistance of a professional Milwaukee Chimney Service or one in your locality for its construction, maintenance, and important chimney safety measures.
5. Ensure that you get smoke detectors as well as carbon monoxide detectors.
These should be strategically placed in your house. It would be best if you had some in the bedrooms and others near your fireplace. Carbon monoxide is dangerous, and if inhaled for long can lead to death.
6. Have the chimney cleaned twice or three times a year
Getting it cleaned ensures that it works smoothly. Failure to do this results IN accumulation of suit and other wastes. Which can creep back into the house and get inhaled by those living in there.
Conclusion With these tips, we believe that you will be in a position to keep your wood fireplace safe and your family warm and happy,