1. Clean the lint screen

• Clean the lint screen after every load

2. Clean the dryer duct at least once or twice a year

• If you notice it takes longer than normal to dry the dryer vent maybe blocked

3. Handle chemical stainson laundry with care

• The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends washing stained clothing or other items more than once to minimize volatile chemicals, then hanging them to dry.

• If you must use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and a drying cycle that concludes with a cool-down period.

• In the event that a fire does start, keep the dryer door closed to limit its oxygen supply—a fire needs oxygen to keep it going.

4. Do not overload the dryer

Chimney Safety

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

One of the most critical aspects of chimney safety is regular inspections and maintenance.

Just like regular roof inspections, HVAC tune-ups, and plumbing maintenance – having your chimney professionallyinspected at least once a year can identify issues such as creosote buildup, blockages, or structural damage. These problems can lead to chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks. Regular cleanings and maintenance will keep your chimney in tip-top condition.

2. Install a Cap and Screen

Chimney caps are essential for keeping out debris, animals, and rain. Installing a cap with a mesh screen also prevents sparks and embers from escaping the chimney and igniting nearby flammable materials. A well-maintained cap and screen act as a first line of defense against potential chimney fires.

3. Use Seasoned and Dry Firewood

Burning dry, seasoned firewood reduces creosote buildup, which can lead to chimney fires. Wet or green wood produces more smoke and releases harmful chemicals into your home. Ensure the wood you burn has adequately been seasoned for at least six months to a year to minimize the risks associated with moisture content. 

4. Practice Safe Burning Techniques

Proper fire-building techniques are essential for chimney safety. Use kindling to start the fire and gradually add larger logs. Avoid overloading the fireplace, as this can lead to increased creosote buildup. Use a fire screen to prevent sparks from escaping and landing on flammable surfaces.

5. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced during combustion. It can be lethal if it accumulates in your home. Installing carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home and near bedrooms can provide early warnings in case of CO leaks from the chimney or other sources.

6. Be Wary of Creosote Buildup

Creosote is a highly flammable substance that accumulates in the chimney over time. Regular chimney cleanings can help remove creosote, but you can also reduce its buildup by using dry wood, avoiding smoldering fires, and maintaining adequate airflow in your fireplace. You can heat your home without running the risk of fire issues by ensuring you don’t have any creosote buildup!

7. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

If you have a wood-burning stove, chimney, or fireplace insert, adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and maintenance. Why is this important? It ensures you’re using the appliance safely and efficiently. You wouldn’t leave other appliances/systems in your home unkept/maintained – such as your furnace or air conditioner – so why would you do that with your chimney?

If your HVAC system says change the furnace filter every 90 days, you should. Well in the case of any chimney components, it is vital to follow the guidelines put forth by the manufacturer.

8. Keep Flammable Items at a Safe Distance

Flammable materials should be kept well away from the fireplace or wood-burning stove. In other words, don’t keep the old magazines and newspapers nearby.

9. Properly Dispose of Ashes

Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep this container away from flammable materials and structures to prevent accidental fires. Obviously, any homeowner will tell you never to bring the container of ashes inside; always leave it outside, just in case!

10. Create an Escape Plan

Growing up, you always heard, “Stop, drop, and roll.” Nowadays, they have added down and crawl. And while these seem a bit silly as an adult, the reason they were stressed to as kids is so we would know what to do in the event of a fire emergency.

Well, if you have a chimney, it is wise to have an emergency plan in case of a chimney-related emergency. Ensure all family members know how to evacuate safely and where to meet outside the home, including elements of stop, drop, and roll and proper safety in the event of a fire. Having working smoke detectors and fire extinguishers on every floor of your home is vital, too!