It’s that time of year..the leaves are changing color, the geese are heading south, the dog’s coat is getting thicker and folks are phoning Firewood Manitoba to get their wood supply ready for the cooler days (and nights).
On that note, please see below for some excellent tips to keep you and yours safe and warm:
Nothing is more inviting than a crackling fire on a cold night. Follow a few basic safety tips before you light your fireplace or wood stove.
- Have your chimney cleaned twice a year, and inspect your flue vents regularly. To prevent creosote from building up in your chimney flue, don’t burn cardboard, trash or green wood. Instead, opt for well-seasoned logs and kindling. If you would like the contact information for a certified WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) chimney cleaner and/or fireplace/wood stove installer please email or call us.
- Keep a Class A fire extinguisher on hand. Make sure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are installed in the proper locations in your home, and test them regularly. Firewood Manitoba has certified extinguishers for sale as well.
- Don’t use gasoline, charcoal starter fluid or other flammable liquids to start your fire.
We provide dry kindling fee of charge to our clients. - Teach your children to stay clear of a hot stove or burning fire. Never leave young children unattended when you’re operating your fireplace or wood stove.
- Ashes can contain live coals, so let them cool completely in a metal container before you throw them out.
- Store wood safely away from your wood-burning appliance to reduce fire risks. Check with your local fire department or wood stove manual for proper clearances.
Fireplace owners:
- Open the damper before you light your fire, and keep it open until the fire has burnt out and the ashes are cool.
- Use a screen to keep logs and embers inside your fireplace.
Wood stove owners:
- Have your fire department, building inspector, stove retailer or chimney sweep ensure your stove meets WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) safety guidelines.
- Installing a new stove? Place it well away from walls, furniture, curtains and other combustible material, and make sure it has proper clearance, a floor pad and a ventilation system.
- Check latches, hinges and gaskets regularly.
With these precautions in place, you’re ready to enjoy your fireplace or wood stove all winter long.
Stay toasty my friends,
Clint