National Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week, from October 5-11, is a time to raise awareness about the possible dangers and fire hazards in our homes, ensuring our families’ safety.

The topic for this Fire Prevention Week is how to handle lithium-ion batteries safely. Lithium-ion batteries are in practically every battery-powered device you own, from phones to computers and tablets, and everything in between. These batteries are convenient to use, but come with risks if you’re not careful.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends that you only buy products with lithium-ion batteries that are certified by a reputable lab like UL, ETL, or CSA. This certification means the device and battery have met important safety standards.

Another important safety tip is to be careful about charging. Always use the cord and charger that came with the device and steer clear of cheap knockoffs you find online.

What About the Fireplace and Chimney?

As the premier fireplace and chimney specialist in metro Detroit, we know that now that cold weather is approaching, many people will turn to their fireplaces or stoves to stay warm and cozy. However, did you know that home fires account for more than 75% of all civilian fire deaths, and that over 2,600 Americans die in home fires every year?

If that weren’t sad enough, most of these tragedies could’ve been prevented with a little precaution and forethought. Keeping your chimney and fireplace safe isn’t complicated—it requires some diligence and following a few simple tips.

Here’s how you can ensure your fireplace and chimney run efficiently all winter long.

Schedule a Professional Cleaning and Checkup

The Chimney Safety Institute of America recommends an annual chimney cleaning and inspection. This removes harmful creosote, which can become flammable, and checks for chimney damage that could put your home at risk.

Burn Seasoned Firewood

Green or unseasoned firewood burns hotter than seasoned firewood, creating more smoke, leading to creosote buildup. Properly dried hardwood, such as oak or maple, that has been seasoned for 6-12 months burns cleaner and safer.

Install a Chimney Cap

Chimney caps are indispensable for preventing rain, debris, and animals from getting into the flue and causing damage. Caps also prevent sparks from escaping into your roof, minimizing the chance of a roof fire.

Don’t Treat Your Fireplace Like a Garbage Disposal

We’ve seen it too many times: homeowners who use their fireplaces like incinerators. Burning trash, cardboard, treated wood, and plastic can release harmful chemicals and make the creosote buildup worse. The only thing you should ever burn in your fireplace is good, seasoned firewood.

Keep a Fire Zone Around the Fireplace

Make sure to keep flammable materials, like rugs, curtains, and furniture, at least three feet away from the fireplace. Always use a metal or heat-tempered glass screen to prevent embers from flying out onto the floor.

Don’t Leave the Fire Unattended

Leaving the house or falling asleep with embers still burning creates the potential for disaster. Always extinguish the fire completely before you leave the room or go to bed.

Watch for Signs of Chimney Damage

Chimneys are exposed to the elements 24/7, making them vulnerable to damage that could create fire risks. Watch for crumbling bricks or mortar, white stains (efflorescence), smoke coming into the room when the fire’s burning, and bits of tile or flue lining in the firebox.

These are red flags that you don’t want to ignore. If you see them, call a chimney professional immediately.

Practice Proper Ash Disposal

Once the fire is out, the ashes may appear harmless, but the reality is that embers can remain hot for a long time, even days. Make sure the ashes are completely cool before getting rid of them, and place them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Put the container far enough away from the house to avoid a fire.

Check the Damper

The fireplace damper regulates airflow. It allows smoke and gases to escape when it’s open, and prevents downdrafts and debris from getting in when it’s closed. Check to ensure it opens, closes, and seals properly. If not, call a professional for help.

Let’s work together to ensure everyone remains safe this winter. If you need your chimney cleaned or inspected, call the professionals at Motown Fire today to schedule an appointment.