Union Plus
Consumer Tips

How to Use Your Fireplace Safely

Get ready for a cozy season with these tips.

How to Use Your Fireplace Safely


Before you use your wood-burning fireplace this year, take the proper steps to get it ready.

If not well maintained, fireplace fires can get out of control and damage your property and/or cause personal injury. Help stay safe and cozy with these tips for preparing and using your fireplace.

Before You Start It Up
  • Have the chimney inspected. Highly combustible creosote — formed from the smoke, wood particles, gas and other by-products of a fire — is the main cause of chimney fires. To avoid buildup, have a chimney professional inspect and clean your chimney every year, whether you have a wood-burning fireplace, a wood stove or a gas fireplace. Use the Chimney Safety Institute of America to find certified chimney sweeps in your area.
  • Maintain the fireplace. Clean it in late summer or early fall to prepare for upcoming use. Scrub the walls, grate and andirons with a nylon brush, then sweep out any debris. Finish by wiping out the fireplace with water. 
  • Clear the area. Keep any seasonal and home decor items, such as rugs, throw pillows or furniture, away from the fireplace. (Also check that your rugs are nonflammable.)
  • Have a plan in place. It’s important to have a fire escape plan just in case anything goes wrong. Identify the exit routes nearest your fireplace and talk with your family about what to do in the event of a fire.
When in Use
  • Burn the right wood — and only wood. Dry, well-seasoned wood burns clean and leaves behind less creosote. Never burn painted or treated wood; this could create potentially dangerous fumes.
  • Safeguard against sparks. Use a fireplace screen to help prevent any sparks from leaving the fireplace and igniting your clothes or furniture.
  • Keep a safe distance. Your clothing can ignite if you sit or stand too close to the fireplace. If you have young children, consider using a safety gate.

After you prep your fireplace, it’s also a good idea to make sure your fire extinguisher is in working order. Keep it in a spot where you can grab it quickly — just in case.
 

These fireplace safety tips were brought by Union Plus Homeowners Insurance with MetLife Auto & Home®.

Save hundreds of dollars with competitive rates and special discounts just by being a union member. Call 855-666-5797 and mention Union Plus discount code DJ7.

Homeowners Insurance

Special Savings on Homeowners Insurance For Union Members

Get Your Free Quote Today

MetLife Auto & Home® is a brand of Metropolitan Property and Casualty Insurance Company and its affiliates:Economy Preferred Insurance Company, Metropolitan Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan Direct Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Metropolitan General Insurance Company, Metropolitan Group Property andCasualty Insurance Company and Metropolitan Lloyds Insurance Company of Texas, all with administrative home offices in Warwick,RI. Coverage, rates and discounts and policy features vary by state and product, and are available in most states to those who qualify. Met P&C®, MetCasSM and MetGenSM are licensed in the state of MN.
© 2017 MetLife Auto & Home L0417493849[exp1018][All States][DC]