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RE/MAX Fireplace Safety Tips This Winter.

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Real Estate Agent with Preferred Referrals LLC 150291

Curling up in front of the fireplace with a book can be the quintessence of coziness on a cold winter’s day, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t maintain your fireplace and use it correctly.

Here are a few fireplace safety tips when using your fireplace this winter that I found on my company site at RE/MAX.com!

1. Go with a pro
The National Fire Protection Association suggests you hire a certified chimney cleaner to inspect your fireplace and chimney at least once a year. They probably won’t sing catchy songs in a Cockney accent like in “Mary Poppins,” but they will remove dangerous clogs and buildup.

2. Put a lid on it
Ever chase a squirrel around your house with a broom? Exciting, but not fun. Prevent critters, birds and debris from coming down your chimney by installing a wire mesh cap on top of your chimney.

3. Play defense
Spark guards, the mesh screens that can be placed in front of your fire, prevent flying embers from launching into your living room and starting trouble. When you leave the room (or fall asleep) it’s especially important to use one.

4. Be wood wise
Burn seasoned hardwood that has been dried for at least six months. Green, unseasoned or soft woods such as pine emit more creosote — that’s the flammable stuff that can build up in your chimney.

5. Check your equipment
Test your smoke detectors every month, change your batteries every year and replace devices every 10 years.

6. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand
Have one. And be sure you know how to use it.

7. Seal it up
When not using your fireplace, close the damper to prevent warm air, and the money you spend to heat your house, from being lost straight up your chimney.

Is a fireplace one of the top features on your “must-have” list for a new home? The right agent can help you find neighborhoods that allow wood burning fires, and a home with just the right hearth. Find one here: www.ListedByValerie.com.

 
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Valerie McEvoy RE/MAX Preferred Properties OKC

Fireplace Safety Tips
Valerie McEvoy Realtor
RE/MAX Preferred Properties
405-414-5022
valeriemcevoy@remax.net
 

Comments (3)

Cindy Edwards
RE/MAX Checkmate - Johnson City, TN
CRS, GRI, PMN - Northeast Tennessee 423-677-6677

Great tips to share.  A fireplace can be such a bonus in your dream home.  but you also need to be smart.

Jan 24, 2016 05:17 AM
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

A tip for shoveling is to exhale when you lift it puts less stress on the heart

Jan 24, 2016 05:38 AM
Mark Don McInnes, Sandpoint-Idaho
Sandpoint Realty LLC - Sandpoint, ID
North Idaho Real Estate - 208-255.6227

Valerie, excellent tips and post.  Have not chased a squirrel around the house so will take your word on the excitement level.    I do bring in a professional when it involves the fireplace.  Make it a great week ahead.  Mark

Jan 24, 2016 11:14 AM