As fall approaches and the evenings are cooler we think of a nice cozy fire. Woodburning stoves and fireplaces are common in many homes and it is important to remember to be careful when building and burning fires in them.

Prevent sparks from catching fire by placing a shield around the fireplace.

Glass grates enclosing the fireplace entirely are the most effective. Wire mesh grates aren't as impenetrable but are still effective against most sparks. The fireplace should draw properly so smoke is not blown back into the living area.

A non-combustible hearth, such as brick or linoleum, is the best floor covering to have next to the fireplace or stove.

Cleaning the fireplace or stove regularly can also guard against fires. Ash or creosote buildup in the flue can catch fire if the buildup has accumulated over a period of time and the fire temperature is hot. Creosote can be eliminated by maintaining a big, hot fire instead of small, smoky or wet fire which leads to creosote build up. Hire a chimney sweep or clean the chimney flue and damps once a year with a big brush.

The type of wood selected depends upon the type of fire desired. Most people with fireplaces long for nice, bright flames, since they are choosing a fireplace for aesthetic reasons, instead of for heat. Cottonwood, maple or elm are best for aesthetic fires. Harder, heavier woods such as oak and ash are best for heat fires.

Another area of concern with fire safety awareness is the management of woodburning stoves or heaters. Many fires from stoves are started when the residents are away or have gone to sleep. To guard against this, adjust the air intake vents before going to bed or leaving the house.

As with fireplaces, woodburning heaters and stove pipes should be regularly checked to guard against soot and creosote buildup. Slow-burning fires are more likely to create these deposits. Turn off the heater to clean and take the opportunity to make sure there are no other problems developing.

Take time to check your fireplace or woodburning stove before the cold weather arrives. If you are not able to do this yourself, hire a professional chimney sweep to do the job.

(This resource updated on September 2006 and appeared in the Lincoln Journal Star Newspaper Sunday edition. For information on reproducing this article or using any photographs or graphics, read the Terms of Use statement)

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