Fireplace Safety Tips: Keeping Your Home Warm and Secure
Gas fireplace safety is crucial as fireplaces provide warmth and gather family and friends year-round. It’s important to remember that fireplaces can become extremely hot. EmberWest offers essential fireplace safety tips for gas fireplaces to help minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. We care about your safety and are here to answer your questions about gas fireplaces.
Install a Safety Screen Barrier
Since 2013, all gas fireplaces have included a protective safety barrier screen and accessories. These barriers have a fine mesh design for protection and radiant heat. A safety barrier prevents sparks from escaping and provides a barrier against contact with hot glass.
Maintain a Safe Distance for Children and Pets
Children and pets may find fireplaces enticing, posing accident risks. As a proactive safety measure, creating a designated “no-play zone” around your fireplace is advisable. Keep this area free of flammable items, and use a safety gate or screen for additional protection.
Schedule Annual Inspections
Ensure your fireplace operates safely by having it inspected regularly by a qualified professional, which can also extend its service life. A trained technician can detect potential hazards like defective gas lines or blockages and confirm that everything is safe. Regular check-ups are a modest investment that enhances your fireplace’s safety and longevity.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors
When installing a vented gas fireplace, ensure a hard-wired carbon monoxide detector is placed on the same floor as your gas equipment. Carbon monoxide poses a silent yet significant threat, emphasizing the necessity for homeowners to install detectors near fireplaces. These devices serve as your primary safeguard, providing alerts to hazardous leaks. Ensure your detector is operational by testing it monthly and changing the batteries as required.
Use a Weatherproof Enclosure
For those with outdoor fireplaces, installing a weatherproof enclosure is crucial. This protects the unit from harsh weather, preventing damage and extending its lifespan. An enclosure also helps maintain the fireplace’s aesthetic, ensuring it remains an attractive focal point in your outdoor area.
Fire Extinguishers Ready for Action
Fires can occur unexpectedly, making it vital to have a fire extinguisher near your fireplace. This straightforward safety measure can be crucial. Everyone in your home should know how to operate it. Regularly check the extinguisher’s pressure gauge to ensure it’s ready for use. In the event of a fire, quick access to an extinguisher can help prevent extensive damage and danger.
The Dangers of an Unattended Fire
Leaving a fire unattended, even briefly, can be hazardous. Always extinguish the fire if you’re leaving home or going to bed. If you need to step away, ensure another responsible adult is present. This simple practice can avert mishaps and provide peace of mind.
Routine Fireplace Cleaning
Regular fireplace cleaning is crucial to prevent dust and debris accumulation, which can be fire hazards. It’s advisable to clean your natural gas fireplace every 2-4 months, ideally before the fall and winter months. If applicable, clean the glass doors for clear visibility and safe use. Avoid using chemicals inside the fireplace, as interactions with gas and heat could be hazardous. Clean the interior with a damp cloth and vacuum up dust instead.
Keep the Remote Out of Reach
For fireplaces operated by remote control, ensure the remote is stored out of reach of children. This precaution reduces the risk of accidental operation and unsupervised use. Store the remote in a place accessible only to responsible adults.
Always Consult the Safety Manual
Every fireplace model comes with specific safety instructions and maintenance guidelines. Familiarizing yourself with your fireplace’s safety manual can prevent misuse and ensure you know all safety features and requirements. Keep the manual accessible for reference, and review it annually as part of your fireplace maintenance routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
EmberWest understands you may have questions about fireplace safety. Below, we address your frequently asked questions about gas fireplaces.
Are gas fireplaces safe?
Gas fireplaces are safe if you follow safety protocol. It’s essential to keep flammable items away from your fireplace, monitor it at all times, and follow your safety manual guidelines.
Is it safe to sleep with the gas fireplace on?
No, it is not safe to sleep when your gas fireplace is on. We recommend only using it for a few hours at a time.
Do gas fireplaces deplete oxygen?
Yes, oxygen is easily taken out of the air when gas appliances burn. It’s vital to open a window or ask about oxygen-depletion sensors.
Learn More About Gas Fireplace Safety
At EmberWest, we care about the safety of your fireplace. Our team will help you understand the best ways to protect you and your home from fires caused by gas fireplaces. We invite you to visit our showroom or contact us to learn more about gas fireplaces.