Wood Burning Stove Safety

Wood burning stoves are popular for their warmth and the atmosphere they create.

Many homeowners choose to install a wood stove because of the pleasant smell it exudes. Certain safety procedures must be followed to reduce the chance of hazards.

Installation

When having a wood stove installed, the best person to do so is a professional. They are not meant to be placed in a garage or other area in which vapors from the wood can build up, which can be a health hazard.

Stove Setup

The floor or surface beneath the stove should be heat resistant in case a coal or other burning material falls out of the stove. The stove should not be vented into a chimney that is used by another appliance in the house. This can raise the chances of a fire and of exposure to carbon monoxide.

Maintenance

The stove, flue and the pipes for the stove should be inspected and maintained annually by a professional. If you use the stove often, the flue will need to be cleaned more due to the buildup of creosote, which can cause a chimney fire.

Safe Use

You should keep a fire extinguisher close by in case of an emergency.

Ashes are best disposed of in fire-resistant container and kept away from children. It should have a lid and be stored away from materials that easily burn. Keeping a fire extinguisher nearby and having smoke alarms installed throughout your home also provide a greater measure of security.

Prevention/Solution

Keeping you and your family safe with a wood burning stove involves education, awareness and using the stove correctly. Children who understand the hazards of the stove, the rules when it is being used and that are supervised when near it have less chance of being injured.

References

• NAMIC: Woodburning Stoves