It’s the most wonderful time of the year to relax near a festive fireplace and enjoy the warmth and glow of a crackling fire.  While many homeowners have decked the halls AND mantel with seasonal decorations, precautions should be taken to ensure a safe holiday fire.

Advanced Chimney Sweeps of Atlanta recommends having your chimney cleaned every year by a licensed professional to be sure that it is functioning properly and free of safety hazards.  A clean chimney can prevent house fires as well as exposure to danger creosote smoke and vapor.  During cleaning, a chimney should also be checked for structural damage or cracks in the flue lining which can also cause house fires.

In addition to a clean chimney, follow these Fireplace Safety Tips this holiday and all year long…

• Holiday Decorations & Packages: keep them at a distance.  Do not place them near any fire source.
• Wrapping Paper: Do not burn boxes, garbage or wrapping paper in the fireplace.
• Fire Extinguisher: Keep one in your home at all times for fireplace safety.
• Christmas Trees: Do not burn Christmas trees in your fireplace.  They are not seasoned properly for the fireplace or woodburning stove.
• Smoke alarms: Be sure there is one on every level of your home in good working order.
• Carbon Monoxide alarm: install one to alert you of any poison threat in your home.
• Ashes: dispose of ashes properly; especially when still warm.
• Firewood: burn only seasoned, low moisture firewood.

Enjoy your safe and festive holiday fire by taking the proper precautions this holiday season.

Got questions about your chimney and it’s need for a cleaning?  Contact us today for an free estimate.  Advanced Chimney Sweeps of Marietta Georgia wishes you a safe and happy holiday season.