During cold winter months, there is nothing more comforting than sitting by a roaring fire. If you own a fireplace or wood stove, you should know about the DO’s and DON’Ts of maintenance to ensure that damage to your home and injury to loved ones does not occur. The home insurance team at Farmers Mutual of Tennessee shares some tips to stay safe at home with your fireplace or stove.

DO…

Clean Your Chimney

How often you clean your chimney depends on how often you use your fireplace or stove. According to the National Fire Protection Association, “Chimneys, fireplaces, and vents shall be inspected at least once a year for soundness, freedom from deposits, and correct clearances. Cleaning, maintenance, and repairs shall be done if necessary.” Even if you don’t use your chimney often, FMT recommends you have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year – ideally before each burning season. Not only will this take care of the soot but will ensure removal of any flammable debris left by nesting birds and other critters.

Use the Correct Tools

Homeowners maintenance is important and the use of the right tools when burning a fire is essential. This includes pokers, which allows you to move burning wood, bellows to introduce oxygen into the fire, and dog iron to support logs as they’re being placed into the fire. Never handle burning items yourself, as the risk of injury is high.

Supervise a Fire

Never leave a fireplace or stove unattended. If there is an issue with your fireplace, you risk damaging your home. A fire can wreak havoc quickly, and even with the proper home insurance in place, you will still suffer a severe loss if you lose the house and personal belongings. Only build a fire when you have the time and patience to stay there.

DON’T…

Allow Children & Pets Near the Fire

Prevent kids and pets from getting close to an active fire. Even if you have a screen protector in place, there is still a risk of injury. Children and pets can easily be injured if they’re too close, so make sure others are aware of the proper distance.

Put Certain Items in the Fire

For your fireplace or stove to operate safely and efficiently, only burn dense hardwoods like maple or oak. Burning other items, such as paper, plants, or charcoal, results in the release of harmful toxins. These toxins will subsequently be released into the air as they burn, which harms both people and pets.

By following these suggestions, you may be able to avoid damages that could result in a large homeowners insurance claim. For more information on protecting your property, speak with your local independent agent or contact Farmers Mutual of Tennessee online or call (800) 824-9555 to speak with a friendly FMT representative.

Since 1913, Farmers Mutual of Tennessee has been providing quality insurance coverage at an affordable price to residents throughout Tennessee. One of FMT’s local independent agents will be happy to find the right coverage for your home, mobile home, rental dwelling or farm and at a price to fit your budget.