Football is starting up; pumpkins are starting to become ubiquitous; and hoodies are starting to come out, which can all mean one thing — Fall is here.
As the days get shorter and the air gets colder, you might be tempted to cozy up to the fireplace to watch the flames crackle and the embers smolder with a nice cup of hot cider, but first you need to do a couple things to make sure it’s safe.
Wood Burning Fireplaces.
First (and perhaps most obvious), you need to clean the fireplace out. However, don’t clean it all the way. The fire protection handbook advises that you leave at least an inch of ash on the bottom, as a kind of passive fire protection. Once that’s done, have fire protection services come and inspect your chimney to make sure everything is in shape.
Gas Fireplaces.
Wood burning fireplaces are pretty easy to clean, but gas ones can be tricky, which is why the fire protection handbook advises professionals clean the pilot assembly. They’ll also be able to purge any air that’s been trapped in the gas supply line, and also test it, too.
Electric Fireplaces.
If you have an electric fireplace, the fire protection handbook says it’s important to clean the firebox and control compartment with a vacuum. As for the back of the glass, you should only use a mild soap and some water — never with glass cleaner.
It’s also important to note that all of your fire protection products — your smoke alarm and your fire extinguishers — are in good condition and up to scratch if you do decide to use your fireplace this Fall.
After going unused for months, a neglected fireplace can be quite the fire hazard, but if you use the fire protection handbook’s tips, it’ll be safe in no time. If you have any questions about what the fire protection handbook says, feel free to ask in the comments. Read more.