City Of Melrose News - Melrose HHS Department Promotes Wood Burning Fireplace & Stove Safety

From: City Of Melrose
November 29, 2022

Melrose HHS Department Promotes Wood Burning Fireplace & Stove Safety
In 2020, there were 539 fire incidents involving chimneys, fireplaces, and wood stoves in Massachusetts that resulted in civilian and firefighter injuries and $3.4 million in property losses, according to Mass.Gov.

As winter draws closer and the use of wood stoves and fireplaces increases, the Melrose Health and Human Services wants to make sure residents are staying safe this winter by following the dos and don’ts of wood stoves/fireplaces.

In addition to these dos and don'ts below, something to keep in mind when burning wood is that while some might enjoy the smell of smoke, it is toxic. To decrease the amount of smoke of the fire is giving off, make sure to burn dry, well-seasoned wood.

It’s important to have good ventilation when burning wood in your home as smoke contains multiple toxic air pollutants. Consider opening a window just a crack when burning wood to provide further ventilation for smoke. It’s also imperative that smoke detectors are up to date if you’re going to enjoy a nice cozy evening in front of the fireplace or stove.

The DOS and DON'TS of Wood Stoves & Fireplaces

DO  -  Make sure there is enough clearance between the stove and combustible materials, including floors, walls, and ceilings.
DO  - Place the stove on a noncombustible, fire-resistant base.
DO  -  Have a mason or other competent person inspect the chimney.
DO  - Dispose of ashes in a closed metal container outside the house.
DON'T  - Extend the stove pipe through a wall or ceiling unless there is no possible alternative.
DON'T  - Connect a wood stove to a fireplace chimney unless the fireplace has been sealed off.
DON'T  -  Connect a wood stove to a chimney serving another appliance burning other fuels.
DON'T  -  Let a wood fire burn unattended or overnight.
DON'T  -  Burn trash in a stove; doing so can start a chimney fire.
DON'T  -  Start a stove fire with flammable fluids, such as gasoline.

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