Fireplaces & Wood Stoves - Indoor Safety

Purpose - Fireplaces and wood stoves are used for primary or secondary heating. Some fireplaces burn natural gas instead of wood.

Dangers - Fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, natural gas leaks.

Prevention

• Install and maintain smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Inspect fireplaces or wood stoves before each year's heating season.
• Inspect flues and chimneys annually.

Emergency - Follow the emergency procedures if:

• You suspect carbon monoxide poisoning.
• There is a fire.
• You smell gas.

Safety Tips

• Check local building codes before installing a fireplace or wood stove.
• Keep the area around fireplaces or wood stoves free of clutter.
• Check your chimney and flue annually for creosote build-up.
• Never vent a wood stove or fireplace to the same chimney as your furnace.
• Make certain your home has adequate ventilation.
• Only use fuels for which your stove or fireplace has been designed.
• Keep all-purpose fire extinguishers on each floor of your home. Check them regularly. Know how to use them.
• Make sure chimney roof vents are not blocked by ice or debris.