Keep your home cozy and safe over the winter season with proper fireplace safety!

There’s no time like the holidays for gathering around a cozy fire. The flickering light, the dancing flames, and the warm glow of the fire makes any house a home. Even so, incorrectly using a fireplace can quickly end up in a smoky house, or worse.

Here’s how to enjoy your fire safely!

Have your fireplace cleaned and inspected regularly.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, 28 percent of heating fires are caused by unclean equipment, especially chimneys. Over time, creosote builds up in the chimney. If the creosote isn’t removed, a chance of a chimney fire increases. This is not only dangerous in itself, but it can also cause damage to the chimney, increasing the risk of flames reaching the frame of the house.

Debris such as fallen leaves and animal nests should also be removed, since they can restrict airflow and cause carbon monoxide to back up into the house. (Besides, if your chimney’s blocked, how’ll Santa get in?) Wood burning and gas fireplaces both need inspections to ensure that they’re safe to use.

Burn only dry and seasoned wood.

Burning wet wood creates a large amount of smoke and makes creosote build up that much quicker. To be properly seasoned, firewood must be cut to length and allowed to dry for at least 6 months (up to a year in damp climates) before being burned. If you’ve gathered a stockpile of wood, be sure to protect it from rain and snow.

Install and regularly check carbon monoxide detectors.

Burning wood creates carbon monoxide, a highly poisonous gas — but this poses little danger if your chimney’s properly maintained and free from obstructions. Even so, it’s best to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors close to your fireplace as well as in your bedrooms.

Are you ready to protect your home from the perils that come along with winter? Contact Aimpro Insurance for the insurance solutions for your home. We serve the communities of Phoenix and neighboring cities of Arizona with reliable insurance coverage – visit us today!