The high cost of home heating fuels and utilities has caused many Americans to search for alternate sources of home heating. The use of wood burning stoves is growing and space heaters are selling rapidly, or coming out of storage. Fireplaces are burning wood and man made logs. All these methods of heating may be acceptable. They are however, a major contributing factor in residential fires. Many of these fires can be prevented. You can prevent the loss of life and property resulting from heating fires by being able to identify potential hazards and following the safety tips contained in the factsheets on this page.
Video: Fireplace Safety In this video series, National Fire Academy Deputy Superintendent Rob Neale describes the techniques to build an enjoyable and safe recreational fire in your home. This video describes the materials needed to build a fire in a woodstove or fireplace, while simultaneously addressing fire safety issues. The series includes an overview on inspecting the fireplace, appropriate materials to burn, and how to control the fire to prevent unwanted accidents. Watch the Video »