Many homeowners have installed wood stoves as a primary or secondary source of heat as a way to save on fuel costs during these challenging economic times. If you use a wood stove, then you will want to follow safety guidelines recommended by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Here are some suggestions for safe and proper wood stove usage:
- Open the stove dampers before starting a fire.
- Keep dry wood and flammable items such as draperies, towels, books and newspapers away from the stove.
- Use clean newspaper or kindling to start a fire, not kerosene, starter fluid or gasoline.
- Empty the ashes from the stove once per week during the heating season.
- Dispose ashes in a metal container with a lid.
- Inspect pipes and connections once a month for creosote and soot buildup.
- Hire a professional to clean the stove vents and chimney once a year.
- Install and maintain a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.
- Place the stove on a fire resistant base.
For more information on wood stove and fireplace safety, please call Soucy Insurance at 762-2218.
