Fireplace Safety

     Now that it's getting chilly I've been seeing news stories about fireplace safety. I thought I would do my own to keep my wonderful readers safe and warm all winter. 
     According to the U.S. Fire Administration, "more than one-third of Americans use fireplaces, wood stoves and other fuel-fired appliances as primary heat sources in their homes." 
     The USFA has a list of things you can/should do to keep yourself safe. However, like most government writs it can be a little complicated and hard to read. After months of research I think I have interrupted the text correctly. 


USFA: Many people are unaware of the fire risks when heating with wood and solid fuels."
Tip #1: Fire will burn you or your home down!


USFA: Use fire-resistant materials on walls around wood stoves.
Tip #2: Do not build a fireplace out of wood. This will not work. 


USFA: Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended.
Tip #3: A fire is like a small child. Turn your back and it's putting something in it's mouth or flushing something down the toilet. 


USFA: Never use flammable liquids to start a fire.
Tip #4: I'm not sure I understand this one. Why the heck do they make lighter fluid then?!


USFA: Have your chimney or wood stove inspected and cleaned annually by a certified chimney specialist.
Tip #5: Your cousin Clem is NOT a certified chimney specialist. 


For further tips and instruction please refer to Mary Poppins, or http://www.usfa.fema.gov/citizens/home_fire_prev/heating/fireplace.shtm


Thanks Y'all! Stay Safe!