The cold weather continues and we are faced with the challenge of keeping snug and warm throughout the winter.
Whether it is enjoying a roaring fire in a fireplace or stoking up the old wood stove, we need to take the extra time to ensure we are also going to be fire safe.
Here are some tips from Vernon Fire Rescue Services, the B.C. Office of the Fire Commissioner and Fire Prevention Canada to keep you safe when using your wood stove or fireplace this winter.
Open the damper before lighting the fire, and keep it open until the ashes are cool enough to touch.
Ensure the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house.
Do not store combustible materials such as paper or wood too close to the fireplace.
Use dry, well-seasoned wood in small amounts.
Have chimneys cleaned and serviced at regular intervals by a professional.
Never overload your fireplace.
Never use charcoal starter fluids, gasoline or any flammable substance to start fires.
When using artificial logs, burn only one at a time and follow instructions on the wrapping.
Always place the ashes in a metal container and take them outside the house.
When enjoying your fireplace, stove or insert, it’s important to remember these basic safety precautions to keep to avoid the risk of serious burns:
Fireplaces, stoves and inserts become hot during operation. This is a characteristic associated with their function of providing heat in the home.
Parents are advised to keep small children away from fireplaces, stoves and inserts. These appliances should be treated with the same caution as hot range tops, ovens and clothing irons. Physical barriers, such as adjustable safety gates in doorways, can be used to keep children, as well as pets, a safe distance away.
Factory screens that are provided with the product and secondary barriers, such as free-standing screens, help to reduce the risk of serious burns, as they can prevent skin from coming into direct contact with the glass or fire and prevent embers from escaping and igniting carpets, etc.
However, screens also retain heat so touching them is not advised.
As with all heat generating appliances, fireplaces, stoves and inserts, and their surrounding material, will remain hot for a period of time after being turned off, so caution should be used at all times.
Lawrie Skolrood is a deputy fire chief with Vernon Fire Rescue Services.