Fireplaces, wood stoves and chimneys should be inspected once a year to ensure that they are in proper operating condition (i.e., no cracks in fireplace masonry or wood stove linings).

Use only the proper fuel. Don’t use coal in a fireplace or stove that is designed only for wood fires. Never use flammable liquids to ignite a fire.

Try to keep the fire at a moderate level. Continuous burning of wood at a low-fire level may contribute to creosote build-up, increasing the potential for chimney fires and the corrosion of metal-parts. Inspect the chimney and chimney connector on wood stoves at least twice monthly and clean if necessary. Avoid over-firing the stove, since overheating may damage the stove and chimney connector or cause a fire in adjacent structures.

Keep children away from fireplaces and wood stoves. They can be burned badly by touching such hot surfaces as fireplace screens or the exterior of a stove.

Always keep combustible materials (kindling, newspapers, drapery, etc.) a safe distance from fireplaces and wood stoves.

When constructing a new fireplace and chimney for your home or installing a wood stove and chimney, be sure that the work is done by a qualified person. If you install a unit yourself, be sure first to check with your local building code officials or fire marshal for installation requirements and recommendations.