We’re already three months into 2016. Where has the time gone? We were just preparing for snow, and now we’re planning our spring and summer curb appeal projects, home improvement projects, and of course preparing for spring cleaning. Many of us are looking at decor ideas for the fireplace and all other areas of the home as well. Spring brings change, and many homeowners truly love to embrace change!
Decorate with Fireplace Safety in Mind if Your Fireplace Sees Regular Use
Many homeowners use their fireplace through the spring and summer months almost as often as they do during the fall and winter months. Some enjoy the ambient lighting it provides where others enjoy a romantic evening at home. Whatever your reason for using the fireplace, decorate it accordingly.
- Decorations should never hang from the mantle regardless of the time of year.
- Respect the safe distance rule and don’t put combustible decor within three feet of the fireplace.
- Install fireplace doors or screens to prevent embers from popping out onto your flooring or furniture.
- Store all fireplace tools at a safe distance away from the fireplace, but in an area where you can reach them easily if needed.
- Don’t use decorations that are prone to fall within three feet of the fireplace. They may become unbalanced and tumble into the flame.
- Seasonal decorations such as upcoming holiday decorations should not be placed within three feet of the fireplace.
- Make sure all smoke detectors are working and batteries are good.
- Make sure all carbon monoxide detectors are in working order with good batteries.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.
- Schedule a chimney cleaning at least a couple of times per year.
- Schedule a chimney inspection at least a couple of times per year.
Not Using the Fireplace?
Decorate away! Feel free to use things like flameless candles inside the firebox to produce the ambient glow without the flame. Decorate the mantle as much as you want without worry that anything will catch fire.
When to Schedule Chimney Inspections and Cleanings
The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that your fireplace and chimney be inspected at least once per year if you never or rarely use them. The more they’re used, the more they should be inspected, cleaned, and maintained. Think of it like an oil change in your vehicle. You wouldn’t run your vehicle on the same oil for years, so don’t expect your fireplace and chimney to continue to provide safe heating without inspection, cleaning, and maintenance.
Give us a call at Lou Curley’s Chimney service at 610-626-2439 if you’d like to schedule a full chimney and fireplace inspection or discuss issues you’re having with your chimney. Both of the chimney inspectors who work here are CSIA certified and pursue continued education and additional certifications throughout the year. We’re confident that we’re the solution to all of your chimney needs.