Heating Safely

Fireplace or Woodstove

NEVER start a fire or try to revive one with gasoline or other flammable liquids.
Don't use excessive amount of paper or cardboard to build roaring fires. By over-building the fire, its possible to ignite creosote build-up in the chimney.
Clean your fireplace or stove regularly and have the chimney cleaned and inspected at least once every year or more often depending how frequently you use the fireplace or woodstove.
Keep a glass or metal screen in front of the fireplace opening, to prevent embers from popping out, unwanted material from going in, and help prevent the possibility of burns to occupants.
If synthetic logs are used, closely follow the instructions on the package. Never break a synthetic log apart to quicken the fire or use more than one log at a time. They will often burn unevenly and release higher levels of carbon monoxide.
NEVER burn charcoal indoors (even in your fireplace). Burning charcoal can give off lethal amounts of carbon monoxide.
Keep combustible materials at least 36 inches away from woodstoves and from opening of fireplaces.

Check heating equipment regularly for rusted parts and unsecured mountings.
It's important that you have your furnace inspected to insure that it is in good working condition.
Be sure all furnace controls and emergency shutoffs are working properly.
Leave furnace repairs to qualified specialists. Do not attempt repairs or adjustments unless you are qualified.