Instructions for installing a combustion air supply are provided in the guide, Combustion Air, available from the number listed below. DOC strongly recommends that you install a carbon monoxide detector on every level of your home. Supplemental heaters also require precautions to reduce fire hazards. Reduce buildup of creosote, a source of chimney fires, by burning well-seasoned hardwood, adding small loads of wood frequently rather than fewer larger loads, and never using green wood. Start a fire by using the top down method.
Larger wood goes on the bottom and the kindling on the top.
Ignite the top pieces. The fire will burn down to the larger pieces. This method causes the smoke to pass through the flames, resulting in significantly less smoke during the first 15 to 30 minutes. Never light or rekindle a wood fire with kerosene, gasoline, or charcoal lighter. Make sure that upholstered chairs, curtains, magazines and other combustible materials are kept well away from any heater, including an electric heater.