How to Keep Toddlers Safe Around a Wood Heater

A properly installed and maintained wood stove brings warmth and charm to a home.

Wood heating stoves provide a steady source of heat in many homes, and use a renewable form of energy. However, a wood-burning stove comes with its own hazards. The exterior heats up enough to burn exposed skin that comes into contact with it, and flames behind an open door can catch loose clothing on fire. If toddlers are in the home they must be protected from the dangers of the wood stove. Merely warning them to stay away because it is hot is not sufficient.

Things You'll Need

• Blocking fence
• Fire extinguisher

Instructions

1. Never leave a young child unattended in a room with a hot wood stove. It only takes a moment for an accident to happen.

2. Avoid having soft cloth or plastic toys in the same room. Toddlers love to practice throwing things, and a toy that lands on a hot stove can quickly go up in flames.

3. Block access to the stove by arranging obstacles such as furniture or boxes so that they are in the way. A temporary fence using lightweight snow fencing allows the family to enjoy the wood stove, yet the toddler cannot climb over it. This fencing is available in home improvement stores and is used to prevent snow drifts. It's inexpensive and easy to roll and unroll as needed.

4. Remove the child from the area when you are adjusting the fire or adding more wood. A simple "reach in" from the child can expose him to the heat and flames. Let him watch safely from a distance while you explain what you are doing.

5. Have the toddler help you with the cleanup of the wood stove, even if she doesn't actually do any work. Ashes have fine particles that a child should not breathe in, so you don't want her to be exposed to the dirtier parts of the job. However, letting her participate even in a small way helps remove the mystery of the wood stove and encourages her to think about it as just another object instead of something that is attractive because it is forbidden.

6. Place a fire extinguisher where you can easily reach it in case the wood stove causes a fire. Ensure that every person in the home knows how to use it, and practice using it in case the worst happens.

References

• Michigan State Univeristy; Wood Stoves; 2003
• Home Safety Council: Home Safety Tips for a Safe and Healthy Winter

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Hearth.com: Choosing And Using Your Wood Stove