As colder weather sets in and people look for ways to cozy up, the last thing you want is a fire in your chimney. If you’re not careful, a fire can result in evacuation, repairs for smoke, soot, and water damage, and filing a homeowners insurance claim. The following fireplace and chimney safety tips will help you avoid these issues.

3 Tricks to Using Your Fireplace Safely

1. Always Use a Fireplace Screen

One of the dangers of a fireplace is that embers can pop out and ignite a rug, curtain, or piece of furniture. This happens more than you might expect, particularly when logs shift and settle in the hearth or a downdraft blows through the flue. A metal fireplace screen helps contain any wayward embers and keeps the fire in the fireplace.

2. Never Leave a Lit Fire Unattended

It is essential that someone responsible always be in the room when you have a lit fire in the hearth. That way, they can respond immediately if a log should roll off the hearth or an ember should sail past the fire screen. Fire acts like a living thing, so if you must leave the room for a minute, ask another adult to watch it while you're gone. If you’re leaving for an extended period, separate the logs and embers, and douse the fire with baking soda. Don't use water; this can fill the house with smoke and could leave you scalded by hot steam.

3. Have Yearly Chimney Inspections

To ensure your fireplace is safe, have it and the chimney inspected each fall before using them for the first time. The fireplace technician will clean any creosote — an oily, flammable buildup from previous fires — and make sure the flue liner is in good condition. This precaution prevents chimney fires and keeps your family safe and cozy through the winter.

For excellent value on homeowners insurance, contact Metro Insurance Agency in Waynesboro, VA. They have served clients throughout Central Virginia for more than 20 years. In addition to home insurance for mishaps like fireplace problems and frozen pipes, they also carry accident, liability, and car insurance. Visit their website or call (540) 942-2200 to request a free, no-obligation homeowners insurance quote.