Fireplace Training
All William & 玛丽 fireplaces are cleaned and inspected annually by a professional chimney sweep. We take great pride in providing training to residents who have functioning fireplaces.
Fireplace Safety Tips
- Keep a fully stocked array of fireplace maintenance tools, including a metal bucket and lid.
- You must use a screen that completely covers the fireplace opening to keep sparks from flying out.
- Failure to open the damper will lead to smoke and potential carbon monoxide (CO) buildup in the residence.
- Choose well-seasoned wood that has been dried for a minimum of six months to a year and stored properly. Artificial logs cannot be burned in W&M fireplaces. Coal and charcoal are also prohibited due to the risk of carbon monoxide build-up.
- Avoid “roaring” fires, as they can start chimney fires from soot and create soot deposits in the flue. Large fires can lead to overheating of wall or roof materials.
- Never use gasoline, a charcoal lighter or other fuel to light or relight a fire, because the vapors can travel the length of the room and explode. Keep flammable materials such as carpets, furniture, paper, logs and kindling at least three feet away from the fireplace.
- Remove colored comic sections from newspaper. The colored inks contain lead and can produce toxic gases. Do not burn trash or gift wrap in the fireplace, because polystyrene foam and other coated materials can generate deadly fumes.
To schedule a Fireplace Safety Class to help your occupants to use their fireplace safely, contact the EH&S Office.
