Before each heating season: sweep the chimney, inspect the flue and crown, test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, burn only seasoned wood, keep a screen in place, and clear combustibles from the hearth.
Before the season
Book a professional sweep and inspection, confirm the damper opens and seals, and check the cap and crown. The leading cause of home heating fires is failure to clean [1].
Every fire
Use a screen or glass doors, burn only seasoned wood, never leave a fire unattended, and keep furniture, rugs, and decor well clear of the hearth.
Detectors and family
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, keep extinguishers handy, and teach kids and pets to stay back from the fireplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the single most important step?
An annual professional sweep and inspection, since failure to clean drives most heating fires.
Where should CO detectors go?
On every level and near sleeping areas; test them monthly.
Is a screen necessary?
Yes, to stop sparks and embers from reaching the room.
Need a chimney sweep, inspection, or repair?
Serving Minneapolis and 80 metro communities.