Fireplaces, Wood Stoves & Fire Pits
Fireplaces and wood stoves are a leading cause of home heating fires. Most of those fires start from creosote buildup in chimneys, combustibles too close to the stove, or hot ashes thrown out too soon.
- Homeowners
Photo: wood stove with proper clearance from walls, a hearth pad, and a metal ash can with a lid nearby
Chimneys
- Have chimneys and vents inspected every year and cleaned as needed by a qualified chimney professional.
- Creosote is a sticky, flammable buildup from wood smoke. Thick creosote can ignite into a chimney fire.
- Install a chimney cap to keep out animals, nests and debris.
Burning safely
- Burn only dry, seasoned firewood (split and dried 6 months or more)
- Never burn trash, cardboard, treated or painted wood, or Christmas trees
- Never use gasoline, lighter fluid or kerosene to start or revive a fire
- Use a sturdy fireplace screen or keep stove doors closed
- Keep furniture, rugs and decorations at least 3 feet away
- Follow the stove’s label for clearance to walls and floor protection
- Put the fire out completely before going to bed or leaving the house
Ashes
Ashes can stay hot enough to start a fire for days. Scoop them into a metal container with a tight lid and set it outside, on a non-combustible surface, at least 10 feet from the house, garage and wood piles. Never put ashes in a paper bag, cardboard box or plastic bin.
Carbon monoxide
A blocked chimney or a stove with a poor draft can push carbon monoxide into the house. Have CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas. See Smoke & CO Alarms.
Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces
- Check local rules and burn bans; many places set minimum distances from buildings.
- Keep pits well away from the house, deck, overhanging branches and fences.
- Don’t use them in high wind or dry conditions. See Wildfires.
- Keep water or an extinguisher nearby, and drown the fire completely when done.
Standards & references
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