4 Essential Fireplace Safety Tips in Calgary

At OneContact, we work to provide you with affordable and convenient home maintenance of value. It is extremely important for us to also provide you with safety. A fireplace is a cozy winter holiday must! OneContact is here to help you enjoy your fireplace with your friends, family and loved ones worry free. 

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1. Carbon Monoxide Detector: Did you know your fireplace can produce carbon monoxide? A carbon monoxide detector will protect you, your home, and family against this odorless but extremely dangerous gas. In case you do not already have carbon monoxide detectors installed, OneConact’s reliable technicians would be happy to give you a hand. 

2. Clean and inspect your fireplace regularly: A built up in ashes can be a fire hazard. It is important to regularly inspect and clean your fireplace as needed. If you have a chimney, it is important to have a professional inspect it prior to lighting your first fire. This will ensure your chimney is free of flammable byproducts. 

3. Protective Screens: To protect your pets and children, place a protective fireplace screen at least 1 meter away from the hot glass or open wood fire. Ensure your screen is made out of steel or iron. 

4. Air Ducts & Air Supply: When a wood-burning fireplace is in use ensure that fresh air has entered your home before lighting the fire. Fresh oxygen is needed for combustion. Most fireplaces come with their own combustion air duct. However, If yours does not have this duct, you must have a fresh air supply, such as an open window. A fresh air supply is needed even overnight, until the fire is completely out. 

Maintaining your fireplace can be a daunting task. Luckily OneContact’s Home Maintenance Program provides a thorough inspection of your home and fireplace. Stay safe with proactive maintenance and contact us here or call us at (403)-452-6606.