Like most things we teach our children, chimney and fireplace safety begin at home. Set a good example for your children by following basic fireplace safety measures and teach them respect for the fireplace from a young age. Children are like little sponges, they pick up on our behaviors and often understand more than we realize.

Fireplace Safety Measures

  • Never leave children or pets unattended near the fireplace. Children may become curious about the fire or the embers and decide to try to touch them. Pets may accidentally get too close and get burned.
  • Keep the damper open while there’s an active fire in the firebox. The damper is how smoke and gases escape up the flue. Make sure the damper is working properly before starting each fire.
  • Keep all decorations and furniture, even rugs, away from the hearth. Everything should be at least three feet away from the fireplace opening.
  • Only use fireplace tools and accessories when adjusting the logs or doing anything with hot ashes.
  • Use leather gloves while working with the fire to prevent burns.
  • Devise an escape route and make sure everyone knows how to get out of the house safely in case of an emergency.
  • Check the batteries in the smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors and change them at least once a year.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher near the fireplace in case of an emergency. The more conveniently placed the fire extinguisher is, the more quickly you’ll be able to access it in the event of popping embers or a rolling log.
  • Teach your children fireplace safety with a combination of coloring pages, cartoons, and books.

Fireplace Safety and Chimney Inspections in Drexel Hill

We have two CSIA Certified chimney sweeps standing by to assist you with your chimney needs. Give us a call at 610-626-2439 to schedule an appointment for a chimney inspection or cleaning. We provide chimney services throughout the Main Line region.