During the winter season, most people like to stay out of nature’s frigid temperatures and gravitate to the indoors to stay warm. One common act during this season among many homeowners in Texas and around this nation is to build a fire in the fireplace and curl up in front of it with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate.
Although this sounds like a way to spend a cozy day, it can also turn into a deadly day if these safety tips aren’t followed.
- Before using a fireplace each winter, have the fireplace inspected and the chimney cleaned out by a professional so that all the old ash is gone.
- Make sure there are no hanging tree branches near your chimney outside that could catch on fire.
- Confirm you have a sturdy metal screen surrounding the fireplace to contain sparks and embers.
- Only use dry wood instead of wet wood to minimize sparks.
- If using a wood alternative, follow the directions on the package.
- Start by burning a small fire.
- Don’t use the fireplace to burn garbage or leaves – it could create toxic fumes.
- Never leave a fire unattended.
- Extinguish the fire before leaving your home, even for short trips to the store.
- Confirm that there are working fire alarms in the home
It is also wise to have a fire extinguisher readily available any time you have a fire blazing in the fireplace to keep your family safe this winter.
If you have a Texas fire insurance claim, it is wise to talk with an experienced Texas insurance claim attorney and read his book, Disputes With Your Insurance Company, What All Consumers Need to Know, before speaking with your insurance company. Call the Voss Law Firm for a free consultation at 888-614-7730 today.
