Fireplace Safety Tips

There is nothing cozier than a warm fire on a chilly day. But, as you well know, fires come with inherent risk. Luckily, there are simple ways to get ahead of this, such as regular maintenance and upkeep. Let’s take a look at some of the best fireplace safety tips as a reminder to increase safety at home.

Make Sure to Schedule Annual Maintenance

It is imperative to keep up with annual inspections and sweeps. Not only will this take care of the build up of creosote and debris, it will also get eyes on all aspects of your fireplace. The chimney professionals will look for structural issues, broken components, and water risk areas. 

Fix Any Issues as Soon as Possible

From your annual inspection, you may find yourself with some necessary action items. While some may be minor suggestions, they can quickly escalate if neglected. For your wallet and overall safety, it is important to keep up on these issues. If you notice issues on or around your chimney or fireplace, it’s best to contact professionals as soon as possible as well.

Keep Decorations Away From the Fireplace

A fire risk that sometimes gets overlooked is mantel decorations. This is especially true around the holidays when decorations build up and could potentially cause an increased risk of a fire. Whenever you decide to start a fire, make sure that all flammable items are clear of the fire or hot areas. 

Add a Protective Barrier If You Have Kids

If you have kids, pets, or frequent visitors, it may be beneficial to invest in a fireplace gate. This creates a protective barrier between the fire or hot doors and little hands or curious pets. This is a simple, cheap addition to potentially save homeowners from painful mistakes. 

Make Sure Your Fire and CO2 Detectors are Working

Lastly, it is always important to keep up on fire and carbon monoxide detectors. Fire detectors are necessary to minimize the risk of a fire sneaking out of your fireplace and into your home. Carbon monoxide monitors play a crucial role—as carbon monoxide poisoning is known as the silent killer. There are no real warning signs, so it may be too late to catch before it seriously impacts your family. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide poisoning can end in fatality. 

Call Twin City Today for Fireplace Maintenance and Repairs

If you’re in the Minneapolis area, Twin City Fireplace, Masonry, and Chimney are the experts to call for all your fireplace needs. We have locations in Woodbury and Edina, MN with highly trained and experienced staff to help with anything chimney related. Whether you’re in need of assistance or are looking for regular annual maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Twin City specializes in the installation and repair of gas and wood-burning fireplaces for both indoor and outdoor spaces. We’re also licensed general contractors, gas fitters, and skilled masons to give you a seamless experience from the first call to the finished installation.