Using Fireplaces and Candles Safely in Your Home
Whether for heating your home, providing ambience or decorating for the holidays, candles and fireplaces can be an enjoyable and cozy part of riding out the winter. But you must also be aware of the various risks that come with using them. Fires can quickly spread in your home, causing significant injuries and property damage. Follow these safety tips:
- Always extinguish before leaving. Open flames are inherently dangerous. Make sure you blow out candles and fully extinguish fireplaces before leaving the room or going to bed.
- Supervise closely. Keep children and pets away from candles and fireplaces, and never leave them unattended, even for a brief moment.
- Inspect chimneys. Before using a fireplace this winter, make sure you have your chimney inspected by a qualified professional.
- Consider placement. Place candles on stable, flat surfaces, and away from any flammable materials, such as curtains, furniture and carpeting.
- Check smoke detectors. Double-check that you have working smoke detectors throughout your home, including on each level and in every bedroom.
For additional home safety resources, contact us today.