Fireplace and Wood Stove Winter Dangers

DELAWARE - During the past week in Delaware, multiple fires involving a fireplace or wood stove have caused significant damage in residential structures.

The Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal encourages homeowners to maintain the fireplaces and wood stoves inside their homes by having them cleaned and inspected each year by a qualified professional.

This service should include but not limited to:

• attention to chimney and ventilation exhausts,

• ensuring that fireplaces have screens to stop sparks from flying into the room, and

• letting ashes cool before putting them into a metal container that is kept a safe distance from your home.

All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

The best time to maintain these elements of your home is prior to winter use, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.