Fall has arrived, and with it has come cooler temperatures, shorter days, and more opportunities than ever to curl up in front of a roaring fire. To celebrate, the Hearth, Patio, & Barbecue Association has named October as National Fireplace Month. Using the hashtag #FireItUp, the HPBA is helping to raise awareness about fire safety, as well as help homeowners find the perfect heating appliance for their homes.
Fireplace safety tips
Fireplaces add comfort, warmth, and value to your home; however, as with all fuel burning appliances appropriate precautions should be taken to ensure the whole family can safely enjoy them. The following are just a few safety tips that can help protect you and your family as you use your fireplace this October – and throughout the rest of the year.
Have the fireplace inspected annually
No matter what fuel source your fireplace burns – whether it is wood, gas, pellets, or coal – it is important that it is regularly inspected. An annual inspection can help ensure that the fireplace system has not been damaged and can continue to burn and vent safely. An annual sweeping or cleaning is often a part of an inspection; even gas fireplaces, stoves, and inserts can benefit from having their gas lines cleaned by a trained technician.
Keep décor and furnishings away
Because of the heat generated by fireplaces – as well as the risk of popping coals and embers – décor and furnishings should be kept at least three feet away from the fireplace when it is in use. This is especially important during the holiday season when many of us have hanging décor over the hearth or mantle.
Test alarms regularly
While all homes should have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, they are especially important for those with fireplaces. Alarms should be placed on every floor of a home, especially outside sleeping areas. All alarms should be tested at least once every six months to ensure they are working properly; even working alarms should be replaced every 8-10 years so your home is up to date with current technology and safety standards.
Finding the right fireplace
If you have an aging fireplace, a stove that creates more smoke than heat, or want to add a new heating appliance to your home, October’s National Fireplace Month is the perfect time to shop! If you live in the Milford, Connecticut area, visit the showroom at The Cozy Flame to learn more about the wide variety of heating appliances available today. Between fireplaces, stoves, inserts – and even outdoor grills! – our expert staff can help you find a heating appliance that will fit your home’s style as well as meet your heating needs.
Fire it up for fall – and get ready for winter – by celebrating National Fireplace Month this October! For more information on fireplace safety or for help finding the perfect heating appliance for your home, contact the staff at The Cozy Flame today!