Transcript
WOOD STOVE SAFETY TIPS Every year there are many unexpected fires, property damage claims and personal injuries associated with wood burning stove use. Most problems occur due to carelessness, lack of proper information and poor maintenance and inspections. The following ten safety suggestions may help reduce possible dangers.
1.
Burn dry seasoned wood, which produces more heat and also prevents soot (creosote) buildup. Flue vents should be inspected according to manufacturer guidelines, and cleaned as appropriate by a qualified individual.
2. To start a fire in your wood stove; crumple up paper on the stove floor and cover with small kindling. Open the draft/damper fully and light. Hold the door slightly ajar for a few minutes and then close tightly. Once the wood is burning brightly, add additional day seasoned wood to the fire. Use the draft control to adjust the burn rate. NEVER light or rekindle a fire with kerosene, gasoline, or charcoal lighter fluid. 3.
There shall be a floor protection of a fire-resistant material at least 18 inches from front of stove outwards, and 6 to 12 inches on sides of stove.
4. There should be at least 18 inches between the top of the stovepipe and the ceiling or other combustible materials. 5.
There shall not be any combustibles located 36 inches from the front of the stove (i.e. couches, chairs, and furniture).
6.
Other household venting appliances (down draft exhaust fans) can diminish proper venting of your wood stove, causing possible smoke damage. Test all other appliances (bathroom fans, stovetop venting, HVAC units, etc.).
7. Wood stoves should be safety tested and bear a label from a recognized authority such as a testing lab (UL) or building code group (NFPA). 8. Children and pets must be supervised at all times when wood stoves are in use. If you must, install a metal enclosure around the wood stove to keep children and pets from touching the stove. 9.
When re-fueling (adding more wood) open damper fully then open door slowly to prevent smoke from filling the room.
10.
When cleaning ashes from stove, store ashes in a non-combustible metal container with a tightly fitted lid. Place the closed container outside. Do not store near combustibles. Do not store under decks. Ashes may stay hot or warm for days. Check to see if ashes are cool before dumping outside or trashing. All information was obtained from NFPA or by manufacturers’ recommendations.
