Nothing beats standing close to the warmth of a woodstove or staring into the hypnotic dance of flames in a fireplace on a chilly day. However, fires can get out of control, as reflected by the spike in calls to the fire department when the burning season begins. Fortunately, a little caution and preparation can lessen your chance of becoming part of that unhappy statistic.
First, make sure that your chimney has not built up creosote over the previous burning season. As smoke rises and mixes with cooler air, it condenses and forms creosote, a black, tarlike material that builds up on the inside of the chimney. This residue needs to be removed because it is highly flammable. A traditional rule of thumb is that when creosote build up is as thick as a dime, it's time to have your chimney cleaned.
Schedule a chimney sweep in the springtime when the wood burning season is over. It'll be a lot easier than trying to get one to come after the first fall cold snap when everyone else is thinking about getting a sweep. Another advantage to spring chimney cleaning is that many sweeps have off-season discounts. Your sweep can recommend a cleaning schedule for your chimney based on the severity of creosote buildup.
A good chimney sweep can be helpful beyond just cleaning. With his experience and knowledge of chimney construction, a proficient sweep will be able to examine your chimney from foundation to cap, looking for areas that need repair. Some sweeps are able to do the repair work, while others will provide referrals.
If you have a woodstove, make sure that it is in good working order. Check the iron and steel components for cracks or degradation from the fire's heat and replace those that are bad. Close a dollar bill in the door at various spots around the frame. If you can pull it out easily the gaskets are worn and should be changed.
If your stove has a catalytic element, remove it to make sure that it is in good shape. A light gray or tan color indicates a healthy catalyst; a dark black can mean that it is no longer working properly. Clean off any ash that has accumulated by vacuuming or lightly brushing it off. Replace it if the metal band is badly distorted or pieces of the ceramic grid have fallen out.
Finally, never clean the ashes from your stove by putting them into a paper bag or flammable container. Ashes are great insulators and can keep a coal hot enough to start a fire for days. Use only a metal container and store it on bare ground or cement for at least a week before dumping.
Burning wood can pop, sending a dangerous shower of sparks onto your floors or rugs. To prevent this, always use a fireplace screen that is large enough to completely cover your fireplace opening. Hearth rugs, made from spark resistant materials, are also a good idea.
Take a few moments to tend to the safety of your fireplace and woodstove before the season starts. That way you'll be able to kick back, relax and enjoy your fire safely and securely!
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