See our tips on choosing firewood . Build smaller, hotter fires that burn more completely and produce less smoke. Never add liquid fire starters, especially gasoline or kerosene to start a fire, or an existing fire. Install stovepipe thermometers to help monitor flue temperatures where wood stoves are in use, so you can adjust burning practices as needed. Don't burn artificial logs in a woodstove, unless they are specifically designed for woodstove use.
Artificial logs can dirty the chimney much faster than regular wood.
Don't use coal in a woodstove or fireplace unless there are specific written instructions - it will burn, but not safely. Have your fireplace or woodstove and chimney inspected and cleaned annually by a professional chimney sweep. Put a chimney fire extinguisher near the fireplace or stove. Detecting Chimney Fires Chimney Fires can occur without anyone being aware of them, and damage from such fires can endanger your home and family, it is a wise practice to check for these fires. If you experience any of these signs, then contact us immediately.