Wood Stoves

You should be able to respond "yes" to the following safety statements

1. The wood stove or fireplace has been installed according to existing building codes and manufacturer's instructions.

2. The chimney and stovepipe are checked frequently during the heating season for creosote buildup and are cleaned when necessary.

3. The stove sits on a non-combustible or on a code-specified or listed floor protector.

4. Combustibles such as curtains, chairs, firewood, etc., are at least three feet away from the stove.

5. Only proper fuel is used in the stove.

6. A metal container with a tight-fitting lid is used for ash removal.

Recommendations
Do not use wood burning stoves and fireplaces unless they are properly installed and meet building codes.

Follow the label instructions on the stove which recommends an inspection twice monthly.

Have chimneys inspected and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep. Creosote is an unavoidable product of wood burning stoves. Creosote builds up in chimney flues and can cause a chimney fire. To cut down on creosote buildup, avoid smoldering fires.

Use a code-specified or listed floor protector. It should extend 18 inches beyond the stove on all sides. This will reduce the possibility of the floor being ignited.

Follow the instructions on the stove label for proper location of the stove from combustible walls.

Never burn trash in a stove because this could over heat the stove.

Gasoline and other flammable liquids should never be used to start wood stove fires. Gasoline will ignite and explode. Use coal only if designated as appropriate by the manufacturer.