Fireplaces are aesthetic, and most people love to have them in their homes, but they do come with a certain set of dangers. It isn’t uncommon for pets and children to get injured due to fireplace incidents, and sometimes, the injuries could be severe. Here are some tips on how to avoid these hazards and make fireplaces safe for pets, children, and older adults:
Store Fireplace Tools in a Safe Spot
Fireplace tools are heavy and sharp and can cause injuries. Kids are curious and might experiment using these tools. Hence, you must keep fireplace tools, like the shovel, out of the reach of your kids and pets.
Clear the Area
The area near the fireplace should be clear of anything a kid or an older adult can trip on.
Install Baby Gate
Installing a baby gate for kids not to let them go near the fire is a good solution, especially for kids who are very young and not smart enough to understand the dangers of the fireplace.
Get a Safety Screen
Safety screens will not only prevent the kids and pets from getting too close to the fire, but they will also not allow creosotes and embers from shooting out of the fireplace, which can sometimes land on carpets and catch fire.
Install Glass Doors
If you’re not convinced about getting a safety screen, install a glass door instead. Whenever the kids or the pets are around, remember to close the glass door.
Remove Combustible Items
Remove any items that are flammable or can easily catch fire from near the fireplace.
Set Boundaries
Educate your kids about the possible hazards, and ask them to set boundaries around the fireplace. Drawing a line at a distance might help the kids to understand better.
Switch to Gas-Fired Fireplaces
Wood-fired fireplaces are more dangerous, and in case of emergency, are difficult to put out. Modern, gas-fired fireplaces are safer, and you won’t have to compromise a lot on the aesthetics as well since they are made to imitate logs and natural fire, like in a wood-fired fireplace.
These are some of the tips you should consider if you have kids, the elderly, or pets in your house. If you do want glass door or safety screen installations in Connecticut, CT Chimney Repair is here for you. We provide all kinds of services related to chimneys and masonry, from chimney cleaning, fireplace remodeling, to safety glass and door installations, chimney repairs, and much more. Contact us now to learn more!
